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Liverpool wants Kenan Yildiz as Luiz Diaz replacment

Published

12 months ago

February 24, 2025

Liverpool’s preparations for the upcoming summer transfer window are well underway, with rising Turkish star Kenan Yildiz emerging as a key target. The 19-year-old Juventus forward has attracted attention from multiple European heavyweights, and Liverpool’s interest is reportedly intensifying.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, super-agent Jorge Mendes has been in communication with Juventus, informing them of the mounting interest in Yildiz. With Premier League rivals Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United also keeping a close eye on the situation, a potential bidding war could be on the horizon.

Juventus’ Financial Concerns and Potential Sale of Kenan Yildiz

Juventus recently suffered a disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of PSV Eindhoven, losing 4-3 on aggregate. With their European campaign in jeopardy for next season, financial constraints may force the Serie A giants to consider offloading key players.

As per Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus need to raise approximately £83 million (€100m) before the 2025/26 season, with Andrea Cambiaso and Dusan Vlahovic among the prime candidates for departure. However, if these sales do not generate the expected funds, Yildiz could be sacrificed despite the club’s reluctance to part ways with the talented youngster. An offer in the region of £75m (€90m) might be too tempting for Juventus to refuse.

Mendes’ role in this potential move is particularly noteworthy. The influential agent was recently seen in Turin, reportedly holding meetings with Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli and Yildiz’s family. His involvement suggests that discussions about a transfer are already taking place, with Liverpool positioned as a serious contender.

A Possible Successor to Luis Diaz?

Liverpool’s attacking setup could see significant changes this summer. While Darwin Nunez remained at Anfield despite interest from Saudi Arabian clubs in January, speculation about his long-term future continues. Meanwhile, Luis Diaz’s situation remains uncertain. Although his contract runs until 2027, Liverpool have yet to offer an extension, fueling speculation about a potential exit.

Should Diaz move on, Yildiz could be a perfect successor. The young Turkish international has demonstrated exceptional talent in Serie A, earning praise from club legend Alessandro Del Piero, who described one of his goals this season as “spectacular.” His ability to operate both centrally and from the left makes him a versatile option for Liverpool’s frontline.

Is Kenan Yildiz the Right Fit for Arne Slot’s Liverpool?

With Arne Slot set to enter his second season as Liverpool’s head coach, the club’s recruitment strategy will likely align with his tactical vision. Strengthening multiple key positions—including a left-sided defender, center-back, defensive midfielder, and forward—will be a priority.

Yildiz’s skill set makes him a compelling option for Liverpool. His dribbling, technical ability, and eye for goal align well with Slot’s high-intensity attacking style. While Liverpool have also been linked with Ademola Lookman, Yildiz’s younger age gives him a greater long-term potential.

If Liverpool are to secure Yildiz’s signature, they must act swiftly. With Juventus under financial pressure and multiple clubs monitoring the situation, any hesitation could see him snapped up elsewhere. Given his talent and the glowing endorsements from Italian football circles, investing in Yildiz could be a strategic move for Liverpool’s future.

Our Verdict: A Move Worth Pursuing?

Liverpool supporters have plenty of reasons to be excited about Yildiz’s potential arrival. The young forward embodies everything the club looks for—youth, technical ability, and significant room for growth. At just 19, he has already proven his talent in Serie A, and under the right mentorship, he could develop into one of the world’s elite attackers.

If Diaz departs, Yildiz represents a costly but promising replacement. His reported £75m price tag is steep, but considering the current market conditions, securing a player of his caliber at this age could prove to be a valuable investment.

Tactically, Yildiz’s ability to cut inside, take on defenders, and contribute both goals and assists makes him an ideal fit for Slot’s dynamic system. His performances for Juventus indicate that he thrives under pressure, and joining Liverpool’s talented squad could elevate his game even further.

With competition from Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United, Liverpool must act decisively. If they succeed in landing Yildiz, Anfield could be the perfect stage for him to fulfill his immense potential.