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Juventus Face Contract Test as Premier League Giants Circle for Rising Star

Juventus Seek to Secure Future of Their New Number Ten

Juventus are preparing to accelerate contract talks with one of their most prized assets, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The 20-year-old Turkish international, already a symbol of the club’s modern identity, finds himself at the centre of both admiration and negotiation.

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Despite becoming an undisputed starter under Igor Tudor, featuring in all eight league matches so far, his salary remains modest compared to his peers. “Kenan Yildiz is untouchable for Juventus,” the Italian outlet reported, “but 18 players in the squad earn more than him.” Currently earning just €1.7 million per year, his contract ranks him 19th among Juventus players.

What makes this situation remarkable is his growing influence. Wearing the famous number ten shirt once donned by Del Piero, Baggio and Platini, Yildiz now stands as the most valuable player in Serie A, with an estimated worth of €111 million according to CIES data. He has contributed four assists in domestic and European competitions and leads the club in successful dribbles this season.

Leadership on and off the Pitch

With Bremer injured, Yildiz has even taken on the vice-captain’s role behind Manuel Locatelli, underlining his rapid rise. His maturity has impressed the club hierarchy, fans and sponsors alike. The young playmaker has become Juventus’ top-selling shirt name and one of the most in-demand figures in their marketing campaigns.

“The impact of Yildiz has been inversely proportional to his salary,” Gazzetta dello Sport added, highlighting the irony of a star whose contribution outweighs his pay packet.

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Yildiz’s loyalty to the club remains evident. Both he and Juventus want to extend their relationship until 2030, but negotiations have stalled over financial details. His team reportedly wants to bring his salary closer to that of Jonathan David, who earns €6 million annually.

Sources within Juventus insist that “he does not expect a superstar deal like Vlahovic on €12 million, only a fair reflection of his status and impact.”

Premier League Pressure Mounts

Interest from abroad is rising fast. Chelsea, Arsenal and Barcelona are all closely monitoring the situation, each with their own persuasive pitch. Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, made a €67 million approach last summer that was politely declined. Arsenal, keen to add another creative outlet to their evolving front line, are ready to challenge their London rivals. Barcelona, meanwhile, are banking on the allure of the Catalan club’s history and style.

For Juventus, this represents more than just a financial decision. It is a test of their modern project under the Comolli-Chiellini leadership. The club are determined to prevent another scenario where a homegrown gem is lured away by higher wages elsewhere.

Comolli’s Priority and Potential Risk

New sporting director Damien Comolli is reportedly “studying an offer worth around €6 million a year” to secure the renewal. This would put Yildiz among the club’s top earners, alongside Bremer, Locatelli and Jonathan David.

There is an awareness within the boardroom that the next few weeks will be decisive. Juventus are dealing with injuries, inconsistent form and five consecutive league draws, yet the young playmaker has been their constant source of creativity and confidence.

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John Elkann, a long-time admirer of Yildiz, is also said to be pushing for the deal to be finalised, understanding that such figures can define eras. For all their challenges, Juventus know that losing him now would send the wrong message to fans and rivals alike.

As Gazzetta dello Sport put it: “Juventus must act quickly to avoid the most dangerous risk of all, the intervention of a top club.” With Real Madrid, Lazio and Como next on the fixture list, the player’s leadership will again be tested, just as his agents and the club attempt to align ambition with reward.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Chelsea have shown they are willing to invest heavily in emerging stars, but there is a growing understanding among fans that recruitment must now focus on ready-made quality. A 20-year-old already valued above €100 million and trusted to wear Juventus’ number ten could fit both models. Maresca’s system would undoubtedly suit his versatility and technical control, and his ability to operate between the lines makes him an ideal replacement for the creative void Chelsea still struggle to fill.

However, the challenge lies in convincing Juventus, who view him as their long-term leader. Financially, Chelsea could meet his wage demands with ease, but persuading him emotionally may prove harder.

The Gunners have shown patience and precision in recruitment, targeting players who can grow with Mikel Arteta’s philosophy. A dynamic playmaker capable of combining energy with finesse would enhance Arsenal’s forward rhythm. Fans would see him as a signing in the mould of Martin Ødegaard, but younger, quicker and potentially even more influential in one-on-one duels.

If Juventus fail to finalise the renewal soon, both London clubs could sense a rare opening. The market rarely offers players of such balance between potential and proven class.