Manchester United’s efforts to bring Juventus prodigy Kenan Yildiz to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window fell short.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the Red Devils were among several European giants hoping to acquire the 19-year-old’s services.
In addition to Man Utd, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Fenerbahce were interested in taking the Turkey international away from Turin.
However, new Juventus boss Thiago Motta deemed the ex-Bayern Munich academy graduate untouchable immediately upon his arrival, outlining his plan to build a new generation at the Allianz Stadium around him.
The record-time Italian champions followed Motta’s instructions to the letter, turning down Man Utd’s lucrative £33 million bid for their sought-after talent.
After warding off significant foreign interest in Yildiz, Juventus renewed his contract until 2029 in mid-August, awarding him the coveted number 10 jersey to highlight his importance to their long-term project.
Hellbent on persuading the youngster to commit his future to the club, the Bianconeri tripled his salary, increasing his annual wages to a modest €1m net per season, excluding add-ons.
Yildiz has repaid Motta’s trust this season with four goals and four assists from 21 appearances across all competitions, nailing down a starting berth as his own.
But Juventus are still at risk of losing their forward.
Man Utd remain in the picture, though they may need to see off fellow Premier League rivals Aston Villa in a prospective bidding war.
Per Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport via Calciomercato, Unai Emery’s men are considering parting with a small fortune to pip United to Yildiz’s signature.
Villa are no strangers to pulling off high-profile deals with Juventus, having arranged an intricate player-plus-cash transfer of Douglas Luiz to Italy in the summer.
Following an eye-catching breakthrough season in Serie A and, especially, the Champions League, Yildiz’s stock has skyrocketed, with the Italian powerhouse now valuing their ace at a substantial €70m.