Incoming Arsenal recruitment expert Matteo Tognozzi could be tasked with brokering a deal for €100m Juventus star
Image credit: Getty Images
Juventus are determined to resist growing interest from Arsenal in Kenan Yildiz unless the Gunners are willing to meet a hefty €100million (£84m) valuation for the highly-rated forward, according to reports in Italy.
Yildiz, 20, emerged as one of Serie A’s standout young attackers last season, registering nine goals and eight assists in all competitions. His performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs, but Arsenal are reportedly leading the chase.
Italian outlet Tuttosport claims that Arsenal have sent scouts to monitor Yildiz on multiple occasions in recent months, and the Turkish international now sits at the top of the club’s summer wishlist alongside Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams.
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Arsenal new sporting director, Andrea Berta, is believed to be eager to bolster Mikel Arteta’s frontline, with the North London side also working to bring in top recruitment figure Matteo Tognozzi, the man credited with helping facilitate Yildiz’s move to Juventus from Bayern Munich in 2022. It’s thought Tognozzi’s arrival could be key to unlocking a deal.
Kenan Yildiz (Image credit: Getty Images)
However, Juventus are unwilling to part ways with their No.10 without a significant offer and are preparing to open talks with Yildiz’s representatives over an improved contract. The Turin giants are keen to avoid being “caught unprepared” and view the forward as a cornerstone of their future plans. Yildiz is currently under contract until 2029.
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Speaking to DAZN last month, Yildiz praised new manager Igor Tudor for revitalising the squad since his arrival in March.
“He gave us energy, it was important for us,” Yildiz said. “Since he arrived, we’ve been happy, we’ve been working hard. I’m happy with this season, but I want to improve in everything. I’m always looking ahead. The No.10 shirt doesn’t add any pressure. I play as usual and I’m happy to be wearing it.”
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has already hinted at a major summer rebuild, telling reporters last month that fans should prepare for a “big” transfer window.
“It’s going to be a big one and we are very excited about it,” Arteta said. “We want to increase the depth of the squad and the quality and the skills that we need to go to the next step.”