Chelsea plans £68.3m bid for Kenan Yildiz amid player uncertainty

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a £68.3 million offer for Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz, aiming to secure the highly-rated teenager ahead of Liverpool, who also hold interest but face uncertainties in their attacking lineup. Manager Enzo Maresca is said to be a strong admirer of Yildiz, whose versatility across the front line fits Chelsea's strategy of targeting young talents, though Juventus' economic situation may influence their willingness to negotiate. Meanwhile, Chelsea's recent form has raised concerns, with former player Emmanuel Petit criticizing Maresca for sending a negative message to the squad and lamenting underperformances from key players like Cole Palmer. The team, once in strong contention for the title, has since slipped to sixth in the Premier League, with progress defensively but an underwhelming attack, especially since the winter break. Despite the setbacks, there are signs of optimism with the anticipated return of midfielder Romeo Lavia, whose fitness could provide tactical flexibility and ease pressure on the squad in the season's final stretch. Ultimately, Chelsea's transfer plans and on-field struggles underscore a period of transition as they seek to strengthen their squad and reclaim momentum.