Barcelona ‘nearly signed’ Juventus prodigy | OneFootball

La Liga giants Barcelona came close to a deal for Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz prior to his arrival in Turin.

That’s according to Spanish journalist Albert Fernández, who has on Monday provided an insight into the situation.

Youngster Yildiz, for his part, is fresh off turning heads across the world of football, courtesy of his performances at the Club World Cup.

En route to Juventus being sent packing from the competition in the Last-16 stage by Real Madrid, the Turkish international lit up the USA, notching five direct goal contributions in four appearances.

This, all told, took Yildiz’s tally for 2024/25 to 12 goals and nine assists.

Still just 20 years of age, and playing in a Juve side in the midst of a difficult transition, Yildiz has reached a point where his abilities are no longer up for debate.

And yet, had things played out just a little differently, then the winger/attacking midfielder could have found himself plying his trade with another of Europe’s most recognisable clubs over recent seasons.

As per a report from the aforementioned Albert Fernández:

‘Kenan Yildiz is already a very expensive player, especially after the showcase of the Club World Cup. Barça nearly signed him, but Juve took him from Bayern in 2022.’

Conor Laird – GSFN