Mikel Arteta
Mikel Arteta
Arsenal are reportedly turning to Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz after top target Vinicius Junior signed a new long-term deal with Real Madrid.
Vinicius had been at the top of Mikel Arteta's wishlist amid growing uncertainty over his future at Madrid. The Brazilian superstar had a year left on his previous deal and lengthy negotiations over an extension led to talk of a potential exit this summer.
The Gunners were waiting in the wings and ready to pounce if Vinicius couldn't agree on a new contract. But Arteta's hopes of landing the 26-year-old ended when he penned a lucrative new deal, forcing the Premier League club to go back to the drawing board.
Arsenal Eyeing Yildiz After Vinicius Blow
Juventus attacker Kenen Yildiz
Fabio Ferrari/LaPresse
A new left-winger remains a priority for Arsenal, and they are now eyeing Juventus' attacking gem Yildiz. That's according to Italian outlet La Stampa, as relayed by Calciomercato, who claim the Gunners view the Turk as a 'viable Vinicius alternative.'
Yildiz has been linked with the North Londoners in the past but extended his contract with Juve back in February. That seemed to rule out a departure during this transfer window but a huge offer looks likely to tempt the Italians to sell.
The Old Lady are demanding 'well above €100million' (£86m) to sell Yildiz, who has been at the Allianz Stadium since late 2023. At 21, he is one of the most exciting talents in European football and is tipped to become one of the world's best attackers.
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Kenan Yildiz (Serie A 2025-26)
Appearances (Starts)
Minutes Played
Goals
Assists
Goal Contributions (G+A)
Goals per Match
Expected Goals (xG)
Total Shots
Shots on Target
Successful Dribbles (per 90 min)
Touches
Touches in Penalty Area
Stats courtesy of SofaScore - correct as of 09/08/2026
Former Juve forward Marcos Llorente explained just how highly rated Yildiz is in Serie A with a glowing verdict last season:
Former Tottenham Hotspur boss Igor Tudor also sang the player's praises while coaching him in Turin: "Kenan has huge potential; he has rare qualities: he can make the difference up front with the dynamism of a midfielder. He’s a special talent, but it’s his mentality that will take him far."
Arteta may like Yildiz's versatility as he can play both on the left wing and as a number 10. But he isn't the only option on the Premier League champions' list after failing to sign Vinicius.
Barcola Should Be Top of Five-Man List
Bradley Barcola warms up before Paris Saint-Germain match
Bradley Barcola warms up before Paris Saint-Germain match
Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola could end up at the Emirates despite being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool. Reports of the Merseyside giants agreeing on a £110m deal have been refuted and GIVEMESPORT sources understand that the club are in talks with the French giants.
The Gunners have reportedly been weighing up a £77m move for Athletic Club's Nico Williams, whom Arteta previously raved about. The Spanish winger signed a new deal with his boyhood club last summer but is thought to be more open to a departure this year.
Iliman Ndiaye has emerged as another option and the North Londoners are believed to be considering swooping for the Everton star. The Senegalese attacker has proven Premier League experience and could be the most reasonably priced winger on the list.
Arsenal transfer targets
Kenan Yildiz - Move for Juventus star 'considered'
Bradley Barcola - Looking to hijack Liverpool deal
Iliman Ndiaye - Everton star added to shortlist
Nico Williams - Open to potential transfer
Kenan Yildiz
Kemal Aslan via Reuters
While Yildiz undoubtedly has huge potential, Arteta needs a left-winger who can make an immediate impact, and the Turk might need time to continue developing. A move for Barcola makes the most sense given his status and profile, which could really suit the defending champions.
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal) and Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth)
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal) and Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth)