Arsenal have been in contact with the agent of Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz, Jorge Mendes, ahead of a possible move, with the Serie A club currently locked in contract talks, according to Caught Offside.
Yildiz has become one of the hottest prospects in Europe over the last few years, and at the age of 20, he's already a key player for Juventus. The Turkish international has played 14 times in Serie A for Juventus this season, providing nine goals and assists combined.
His current deal expires in 2029, but the two parties are in talks over a possible new contract, despite the 20-year-old only signing an extension back in 2024. A host of clubs have shown an interest in trying to secure his signature, and there could be a competitive race in 2026 if Juventus are unable to tie him down to a new deal.
Kenan Yildiz
Kenan Yildiz
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of the sides leading the Premier League interest in Juventus youngster Yildiz, with the Serie A club locked in 'delicate' contract negotiations. Progress over a new deal has stalled, with his representatives pushing for a salary increase.
The Gunners are believed to be in contract with his agent, Mendes, and Mikel Arteta's project is understood to be appealing to Yildiz. The north London outfit are prepared to move quickly to secure his signature if Juventus are unable to extend his stay with the Italian club.
Yildiz, tipped to be a future Ballon d'Or winner, can play in multiple positions in attack, which could be hugely beneficial for Arteta.
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Arteta Will Have Problem Fitting Yildiz In
Kenan Yildiz
Although Yildiz's versatility would be useful for Arteta, he might struggle to nail down a starting position for now. The Turkish star has predominantly played as a number 10, but he's also comfortable on the left-hand side of attack.
Unfortunately for him, this is very similar to Eberechi Eze, who is competing with the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard. Yildiz certainly won't be a guaranteed starter if he does make the move to the Emirates Stadium, so keeping all of his attackers happy could become a problem for Arteta if he arrives through the door in 2026.