Report: Liverpool linked to swoop for Juventus starlet Kenan Yildi

Juventus' 19-year-old sensation Kenan Yildiz has emerged as a prime target for the Reds, who are closing in on the Premier League title under Arne Slot.

Slot's men have been in scintillating form this season, with their only defeat coming against Nottingham Forest. As they edge closer to lifting the trophy, a remarkable feat in the Dutchman's first campaign as Jurgen Klopp's successor, attention is already shifting to squad rebuilding.

The futures of key forwards Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, Federico Chiesa, Luis Diaz, and Diogo Jota remain uncertain, with Salah yet to pen a new contract and Nunez widely expected to depart after three years at Anfield.

Enter Yildiz, a versatile Turkish teenager who has taken Serie A by storm. Having risen through Bayern Munich's youth ranks before breaking into Juventus' first team, he has caught the eye of Liverpool's scouts.

According to Caught Offside, the Reds are poised to kick off bidding at around 60 million euros (50 million pounds), though Juventus could hold out for a fee closer to 84 million pounds for their prized asset.

Yildiz has delivered standout moments this season under Juventus boss Thiago Motta, scoring twice against champions Inter Milan, once in the Supercopa against AC Milan, and producing a breathtaking strike in the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven.

He also provided an assist in a victory over Manchester City, showcasing his ability to shine on the biggest stages. Primarily deployed on the left flank, his arrival could hinge on Diaz's potential exit.

Turkish journalist Sezer Afsar has praised Yildiz's potential, telling Tuttomercatoweb: "Kenan is a very talented player. It's natural his performances fluctuate, he's young and eager to learn. Six goals in 40 games isn't enough for his level of talent, but in two or three years, he could be a top player."

Meanwhile, Liverpool are grappling with off-field uncertainties. The club have yet to secure Virgil van Dijk's future, with the captain attracting a huge offer from Saudi Arabia. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has said the Reds are "desperate" to extend Van Dijk's contract, with talks planned for the season's end.

Elsewhere, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher looks set to leave following the arrival of Georgian stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili, with Alisson Becker remaining the undisputed number one.

A recent X update from Liverpool underscored their ambition, with the club posting: "Focused on today, building for tomorrow." Slot appears ready to oversee a significant summer shake-up as the Reds aim to bolster their ranks with emerging talents like Yildiz.

For now, the Premier League crown beckons, but the transfer rumour mill is already in full swing.