The future of Juventus’ crown jewel is approaching a critical crossroads. On Wednesday, December 24, 2025, reports from Calciomercato confirmed that Juventus have set a definitive deadline of the end of the 2025/26 season to finalize a new long-term contract for Kenan Yıldız.
With the "Turkish Diamond" attracting serious interest from the Premier League’s elite, the Bianconeri are desperate to avoid a summer transfer saga that could force them into a cut-price sale.
The "Line in the Sand"
Despite months of negotiations, an agreement has yet to be reached. Juventus is reportedly determined to build their long-term project around the 20-year-old, but the lack of progress has forced the club's hierarchy to issue a clear timeline.
The Deadline: By the end of May 2026, Yıldız must either commit to a new deal or be placed on the transfer market.
The Valuation: While his current contract runs until 2029, Juventus is holding out for a staggering €90 million (£79m) to ward off suitors.
The Demand: Yıldız is reportedly seeking a significant salary increase to approximately €6 million (£5m) per season, reflecting his status as the club's iconic Number 10.
Premier League Giants on "Red Alert"
The contract stalemate has encouraged a host of English clubs to intensify their scouting of the versatile attacker.
Manchester United: In a sensational turn of events, reports suggest Ruben Amorim’s side is prepared to launch an "astronomical" €100 million bid in January to blow the competition out of the water.
Arsenal: Mikel Arteta is a long-term admirer, and the Gunners have reportedly maintained direct contact with Yıldız’s agent, Jorge Mendes.
Tottenham & Chelsea: Both clubs have added Yıldız to their shortlists for 2026, with Chelsea reportedly failing with a €70m approach in the previous summer window.
A Star on the Rise
Despite the off-field noise, Yıldız’s performances have been exemplary this season.
He was recently voted Juventus’ November MVP.
In his most recent outing, he provided the winning assist in a 1–0 victory over Bologna, taking his season tally to nine goals and assists combined.He has fully embraced the responsibility of the #10 shirt, becoming the primary creative engine for a Juventus side currently battling for a Top 4 spot in Serie A.
The Verdict: Juventus holds the cards for now, but the Premier League's financial might is closing in.
If a signature isn't on the paper by May, the "Prince of Turin" could be the biggest transfer story of the 2026 summer window.