Over the past few months, Kenan Yildiz is someone Chelsea have been constantly linked with. Signing the Turkish international will not be easy though. He is viewed by many as the face of the new Juventus project and with the Turin-based side trying to get back to the top of Italian football, they would not be keen to part ways with their brightest talent.
That being said, it looks like Juventus are having a tough time trying to find an agreement with Yildiz over a new contract. If a solution is not found soon, the club might have to consider the idea of parting ways with the Turkish wonderkid.
That might open up a window of opportunity for Chelsea to swoop in. In fact, it looks like they remain in contact with the player's camp.
As reported by The Chelsea Chronicle, Graeme Bailey said about the contract situation of Yildiz at Juventus:
"Juve have not walked away but I am told that intermediaries have been quick to update Yildiz’s suitors, including Chelsea, that there is an issue.
“Yildiz is one to keep an eye, if he comes out publicly confirming his contract issues, that will be a clear sign that he is ready to move."
'There is an issue' - Chelsea handed Kenan Yildiz transfer boost
In 14 games this season for Juventus, Yildiz has scored three goals and provided four assists. The output is decent but not elite. That being said, he is still just 20 years of age and has plenty of time to grow and improve.
Yildiz does seem like a player who rises to the occasion instead of shrinking under the spotlight. His best displays this season have come against the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan.
He is also extremely versatile. Yildiz is capable of playing on both wings, as a number 10 and even as a second striker.
In the summer, it had looked like Chelsea were after that sort of a versatile option. They were in the running to sign Xavi Simons for months but he ultimately ended up at Tottenham Hotspur. On the other hand, the Blues never ended up filling that need in their squad and could try to do so in future transfer windows.