Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz as part of their long-term succession planning for captain Bruno Fernandes.
Fernandes has been a transformative figure at Old Trafford since his arrival, consistently delivering goals, creativity and leadership. However, with the Portugal international now 31 years old, United are beginning to assess future options should his influence eventually wane.
Replacing Fernandes’ output directly would be an enormous challenge, which is why the club are believed to be targeting a younger player with the potential to grow into a leading role rather than seeking a like-for-like replacement immediately.
Although Fernandes rejected a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal last summer in order to remain at Manchester United, ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League combined with the club’s uncertain sporting direction could yet alter his stance. While a January exit is not expected, there is growing doubt over whether he will still be at Old Trafford beyond the end of the season.
Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz has emerged as United’s leading candidate to replace Fernandes when the time comes. The Red Devils’ financial strength is said to be a key factor behind their interest in the 20-year-old German-born Turkish international.
Yildiz has enjoyed a breakthrough season in Turin, quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers. In Serie A, he has already registered 11 goal contributions in 18 appearances, while also adding four combined goals and assists in the Champions League.
A major strength of Yildiz’s game is his versatility. Although he developed primarily as an attacking midfielder during his academy years, he is comfortable operating across the frontline and has frequently been deployed on the left wing.
Unlike Fernandes, who dictates play from both advanced and deeper midfield areas, Yildiz is viewed more as a forward-thinking attacker, known for his dribbling, creativity and clinical finishing rather than tempo control.
As a result, he would not represent a direct positional replacement for United’s captain. However, his ability to influence matches in the final third
Manchester United are thinking about signing Kenan Yildiz from Juventus as a future replacement for Bruno Fernandes,
Bruno Fernandes has been a very important player for United. He scores goals, creates chances and leads the team. However, he is now 31 years old, and the club are starting to plan for the future.
It would be very hard to replace Bruno straight away. Because of this, United want a young player who can grow into the role over time.
Last summer, Bruno turned down a big offer from Al-Hilal to stay at Old Trafford. But clubs from Saudi Arabia are still interested. Even though he is not expected to leave in January, there are questions about whether he will stay after this season.
One player United are watching is Kenan Yildiz. The report says the 20-year-old is the club’s main option to replace Bruno in the future.
Yildiz has been very impressive for Juventus this season. He has 11 goal contributions in 18 Serie A games. He has also added four goals and assists in the Champions League.
Yildiz can play in different attacking positions. He started as an attacking midfielder but can also play on the left wing.
Yildiz does not play the same way as Bruno Fernandes. Bruno controls games from midfield, while Yildiz is more focused on attacking. He is known for his dribbling, creativity and finishing.
Even though he is not a direct replacement, Yildiz could still become a very important player for United in the future.
Juventus are expected to ask for a high fee, likely more than £65 million, if they decide to sell him.
For now, Bruno Fernandes remains a key player for Manchester United, but the club are clearly planning ahead.
