Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz by making an initial enquiry over a potential summer transfer, although the Italian club have made it clear they have no intention of letting the highly rated attacker leave.
The Gunners are understood to be exploring options to strengthen their attack, with a left-sided forward among their priorities during the transfer window. Yildiz has long been admired at the Emirates Stadium, and fresh reports suggest Arsenal have now sounded out Juventus over the possibility of a deal.
According to reports from Turkish media, Arsenal have made formal contact to establish the financial conditions of any potential move following Turkey’s exit from the 2026 World Cup. The enquiry is described as an attempt to gauge whether Juventus would consider negotiations for one of the club’s most valuable assets.
However, any hopes of landing the 21-year-old appear to have been met with immediate resistance.
Juventus are said to have no desire to part with Yildiz and would demand at least €100 million (£86 million/$114.4 million) before even considering a sale. Reports indicate the Serie A giants have informed interested clubs that the Turkey international is not available for transfer.
Yildiz’s importance to Juventus has only grown over the past year.
The versatile attacker, who can operate on the left wing or as a second striker, signed a new contract with the Italian club in February 2026, extending his stay until 2030 after previous uncertainty over his future.
His new deal came just months after Arsenal were first linked with the youngster. Reports in late 2025 suggested the Premier League club believed they could capitalise on stalled contract negotiations, but Juventus ultimately secured his long-term commitment.
Yildiz justified that faith with an impressive campaign, registering 11 goals and 10 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions, primarily featuring on the left flank.
His performances have strengthened his reputation as one of Europe’s leading young attacking talents, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly identifying him as one of his preferred options as the club looks to add greater quality in wide areas.
Arsenal’s interest is understandable given the club’s desire to increase competition on the left wing, where Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are currently the recognised senior options.
Yildiz’s age, versatility and technical ability make him an attractive profile for a team looking to challenge on multiple fronts.
His talent has also earned praise from former Manchester United and Italy forward Giuseppe Rossi, who previously described the Turkish international as “a phenomenon” and predicted he could become a future Ballon d’Or winner.
Rossi said: “The Turk is a phenomenon and will be a Ballon d’Or winner in the future: he’s 20, but he plays like a 30-year-old with a 100 Champions League appearances.”
He added: “Juventus is Yildiz plus 10 others; in terms of impact, he’s a bit like the Lamine Yamal of the Bianconeri.”
Despite the growing speculation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has consistently maintained that Juventus are not prepared to sell.
Posting on X in June, Romano stated: “No chances for Kenan Yildiz exit this summer.”
He added: “Never been a topic as Juventus closed doors already months ago. New deal signed in February, key player and staying even without UCL.”
With Juventus standing firm and Yildiz tied to a long-term contract, Arsenal face a significant challenge if they hope to turn their long-standing admiration into a completed transfer.
