Man United ready to pay £78m to hijack Chelsea’s move for world-class forward – Report | OneFootball

Man United prepared to go higher than Chelsea in pursuit of Juventus star

United’s long-term transfer vision

Manchester United are reportedly positioning themselves to win one of European football’s most promising races. According to Caught Offside, the Red Devils are ready to make Juventus star Kenan Yildiz their top target for summer 2026, with a willingness to “go higher” than both Chelsea and Arsenal.

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“Manchester United are making Yildiz their big priority for summer 2026,” a source revealed. “The current feeling is that they’re ready to go higher than Chelsea and Arsenal, maybe as high as €90m.”

It’s a bold move that signals United’s commitment to refreshing their attacking core with youth and creativity. The Turkish international, 20, has impressed in Serie A with his versatility and composure, qualities that have caught the attention of several top clubs.

Juventus keen to keep rising star

Juventus are said to be equally determined to retain Yildiz, with talks reportedly ongoing to extend his contract. The forward is settled in Turin and, according to sources, is not pushing for a move away. His emergence has made him one of the cornerstones of Juve’s rebuild under their current project, and they are unlikely to sell without a significant financial incentive.

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“The player is happy in Turin, and Juventus view him as central to their plans,” the report added.

Premier League appeal and potential fit

For United, the attraction is obvious. The Premier League’s global pull, combined with United’s need for a dynamic creative force, makes Yildiz an ideal fit. Chelsea’s model of recruiting elite young players might also appeal to the forward, but game time could prove decisive. United could offer him a more prominent role, potentially as a long-term successor to Bruno Fernandes.

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Yildiz’s decision, should he choose to move, could come down to ambition, stability and opportunity.

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The idea of securing a 20-year-old talent like Yildiz, who already looks capable of becoming a European superstar, fits perfectly with what United supporters have been craving: smart, forward-thinking recruitment rather than short-term fixes.

Fans have seen glimpses of how the club can thrive when investing in youth, and Yildiz could represent the next great project. His flair, work rate and confidence are reminiscent of early Cristiano Ronaldo, and while that comparison may feel ambitious, the potential trajectory is similar.

Supporters would see this as more than just a marquee transfer. It would be a statement of intent, signalling that the club is once again serious about competing for the future rather than patching problems of the past. A €90m outlay would be substantial, but if Yildiz fulfils his potential, that figure might eventually look like a bargain.

The mood among United fans would be one of renewed optimism. Reflecting a desire for youthful energy to redefine the club’s identity. If United do push ahead, it could mark a pivotal step towards reclaiming their place among Europe’s elite.