Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after reaching the UEFA Champions League final
Arsenal's transfer window has already been productive, but Mikel Arteta's business may not be finished yet with the desire to sign a marquee attacker before the deadline.
The Gunners recently completed the blockbuster signing of midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, adding one of the Premier League's best midfielders to an already title-winning squad.
However, as much as landing the Newcastle United star was a transfer coup, Arsenal also suffered a significant setback in the market.
After exploring a sensational move for forward Vinicius Jr in recent weeks, the Brazil international ended speculation over his future by signing a new long-term contract with Real Madrid, forcing Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta to turn their attention elsewhere.
Now, it looks as if an alternative target has been identified in Juventus star Kenan Yildiz.
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Position Apps Goals Assists Kenan Yildiz career stats by position
Left Winger 73 13 13 The position where he has played most at senior level, offering a consistent threat cutting inside from the left.
Second Striker 71 23 15 His most productive role, contributing to 38 goals.
Attacking Midfielder 17 8 6 Solid output through the middle, showcasing his creativity and eye for goal in a playmaking role.
Right Winger 17 3 1 Less frequently used on the right, but still capable of providing width and attacking versatility.
Centre-Forward 4 1 0 Rarely deployed as an out-and-out striker, though he has shown he can lead the line if required.
Yildiz featured at the 2026 World Cup, playing all three group matches as Turkey were surprisingly knocked out at the group stages.
Arsenal make Kenan Yildiz top target
According to reports in Italy, Arsenal remain determined to sign another elite attacker before the transfer window closes on September 1 and have their eyes once again on Yilidz.
Juventus' Kenan Yildiz reacts
The report claims those at the Emirates are eyeing a ‘major attacking signing’, with the Turkey international now ‘at the top of the Gunners' wish list’ and is set to cost in excess of £85m (€100m).
Having missed out on Vinicius Jr, Arsenal still want another player capable of transforming their front line and Yildiz could do just that for years to come. One of Yildiz's biggest strengths is his versatility across the front line.
As can be seen throughout his career so far, Yildiz could compete on the left with Gabriel Martinelli while also offering another solution centrally behind a striker, challenging the likes of Eberechi Eze and Martin Odegaard.
General view as Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and teammates celebrate with the Premier League trophy
General view as Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and teammates celebrate with the Premier League trophy
The 21-year-old has been dubbed a “special talent” who “can make the difference up front” by former Juventus and Tottenham manager Igor Tudor.
Yildiz is already regarded as one of Europe’s premier young attackers, and while Juventus may have little desire to sell, should Arsenal put an offer on the table of more than £85m, it could twist the Italian giants’ arm and allow the Turkish star to head to London.