Arsenal target Kenan Yildiz as alternative winger, Juventus demand €138 million

Arsenal have turned their search for a new wide forward towards Kenan Yildiz after their primary target, Vinicius Junior, committed his future to Real Madrid by signing a new long-term contract this week. The Turkish international is reportedly willing to push for a move away from Juventus, and his availability has risen up the Gunners’ agenda.

Why Yildiz has become Arsenal’s priority

Sources close to the situation say the 21-year-old wants to continue his career in London and plans to make his preference clear to Juventus’ management. Juventus, who previously told Arsenal the player was not for sale after earlier approaches, have now placed a price tag of €138 million on Yildiz — a sum that would test Arsenal’s transfer budget.

Yildiz enjoyed a strong 2025/26 campaign, scoring 11 goals and recording nine assists across all competitions. Statistical analysis on WhoScored highlights his dribbling, finishing and key passes as his main strengths — attributes Arsenal hope will add a cutting edge to a frontline that was intermittently blunt last season.

Arsenal have already enquired about the player in the past, and the dynamic could change if Yildiz formally demands a move. If Juventus hold firm on the €138 million valuation, that figure may force Arsenal to consider alternatives.

If the fee proves prohibitive, the club could refocus on Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola — a target still of interest to Liverpool as well — which would complicate any potential approach for the Frenchman.

Whether Yildiz remains Arsenal’s leading option for the remainder of the summer window will depend on negotiation progress between the clubs and the player’s willingness to press for a transfer.

Photo: Juventus FC (X)