Chelsea are hoping to win the race for Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz, according to reports in France.

Foot Mercato claim that the Blues are “determined to accelerate negotiations” for the Turkish international, having already made “contact with the player’s agent in “recent days”.

Juve are keen to keep hold of Yildiz and they were planning to offer the 19-year-old a new contract, which could also include a very high release clause.

However, Chelsea’s interest has the potential to drastically alter the situation. The salary that the Blues could offer may turn the player’s head.

In addition, Yildiz‘s club may be tempted into selling him for the right price as he could raise significant funds for their own transfer plans.

How much would Chelsea need to pay?

Previous reports in the Italian press have suggested that Juventus could hold out for as much as €80m (£68m). That would make him a slightly more expensive option than the club’s other summer targets.

It is believed that Enzo Maresca’s side are also interested in Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens. The former is said to be available for around £60m, while the latter is now thought to be on the market for €60m (£51m).

Yildiz has other suitors in the Premier League

The teenager has attracted interest from Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal over the past year or so, but his asking price may well put off some teams from making an approach.

However, if Foot Mercato‘s reporting is accurate, it appears Chelsea are looking to ramp up talks to secure Yildiz’s signature. The Blues are reportedly keen to do most of their business as early as possible and it looks as if this transfer is one to keep a close eye on.

Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here