Arsenal have launched an ambitious move to sign Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz, with the Premier League champions willing to pay up to £86m for the Turkish international.
Gunners launch £86m bid as Arteta targets Turkish winger Yildiz
The Gunners have already made an enquiry and held discussions regarding Yildiz’s availability, according to Italian outlet Tutto Sport.
However, Juventus have so far met Arsenal’s interest with firm resistance and show no willingness to sell their prized asset.
Mikel Arteta needs to strengthen his attacking options despite Arsenal’s successful season.
Viktor Gyokeres top-scored with 21 goals, but Gabriel Martinelli managed only one Premier League strike and Leandro Trossard has shown signs of decline at 31.
Yildiz represents a long-term upgrade. The 21-year-old scored 11 goals and provided ten assists in the 2025/26 campaign, following on from 12 goals and nine assists the previous season.
Italian football expert Danny Corcoran has described Yildiz as having “Mbappe-like ability” for his explosive dribbling style. The numbers back up that claim.
Yildiz ranks among the top seven per cent of wingers across Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries and the best three per cent for successful dribbles.
By contrast, Trossard sits only inside the top 50 per cent for progressive carries. The Belgian has been a fine servant since his £27m move from Brighton, but his form has become inconsistent.
Yildiz can play as a left winger or as a second striker. That versatility would prove crucial for Arsenal, who also hold interest in Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.
Juventus remain stubborn, but Arsenal’s £86m proposal could force a conversation. Yildiz is still raw, but he possesses the core attributes to thrive in the Premier League.
For a squad lacking a genuine one-on-one maverick beyond Bukayo Saka, the Turkish star could become a game-changing signing.
