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Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz would have been open to joining Arsenal, according to reports in the Italian media.
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It was reported earlier this month that the Gunners had made enquiries about signing the Turkish international.
Tuttosport has confirmed that Yildiz was the subject of interest from the Premier League champions, but they have gone one stage further.
They claim that the Emirates would have been a “welcome destination” for the player if Juve were willing to let him go.
Yildiz is not for sale
While it appears the 21-year-old was keen to join Mikel Arteta’s side, there was never a chance that his club would have sold him this summer.
Yildiz signed a new long-term contract with Juventus back in February, keeping him in Turin until the end of the 2029/30 season.
The Bianconeri regard him as indispensable, and it would have taken an offer well over €100m (£87m) for them to even consider letting him go.
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Arsenal have pivoted to other targets
Strengthening the left flank is one of the London club’s key priorities for the summer transfer window, and while Yildiz was clearly high up the shortlist, he is by no means the only forward under consideration.
Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is said to be a leading candidate. The England international is reportedly favouring a move to the Emirates, but agreeing a transfer fee with Villa is the biggest stumbling block.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola is among the alternatives. He may end up costing just as much as Rogers, but the Frenchman’s reluctance to sign a new contract with the Ligue One side may make them more amenable to a sale.
There is also interest in Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis, but he isn’t thought to be the main target to strengthen the front three.