Arsenal could have an opportunity to make another major statement in the transfer market next summer, with one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers reportedly on their radar.
Mikel Arteta’s side have continued to be linked with attacking reinforcements as they look to strengthen their options in the final third. However, a potential deal for a highly rated Juventus star would require a significant financial commitment, with interest from north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur adding another dimension to the speculation.
While no transfer is guaranteed, fresh reports from Italy suggest Arsenal could be well placed to pursue the player if Juventus decide to entertain offers at the end of the season.
Arsenal tipped to lead race for Kenan Yildiz
According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio (via Metro), Arsenal could lead the race to sign Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz if the Serie A club decide to sell next summer.
Speaking to Wettfreunde, Di Marzio suggested Juventus may need to generate significant transfer income, either by selling several players or sanctioning the departure of one major asset.
“Yildiz could be a deal in the summer because Juventus needs to sell one player or need to earn €70-80 million (£58.5m-£66.9m) from the transfer market,” Di Marzio said.
He also indicated that Arsenal and Tottenham had already made enquiries about the winger’s price during the summer, with both clubs reportedly prepared to offer more than €100m (£83.6m) if Juventus were willing to negotiate.
However, the reported valuation has since risen considerably. Di Marzio believes Yildiz could command around €150m (£125.4m) if Juventus decide to sell, with Arsenal potentially holding an advantage over their London rivals.
“If Juventus will sell Yildiz, he will be valued around €150 million (£125.4m) and I think Arsenal is one of the clubs that is more interested in him. Tottenham too but Arsenal I think will lead the race,” he said.
The figures involved would make any potential deal a major investment for Arsenal. The club paid £105m to sign Declan Rice from West Ham United in 2023, setting their transfer record.
Juventus are not necessarily looking to part ways with their young star, however, and any suggestion of a move remains conditional on the Italian club's willingness to sell.
Why Yildiz is attracting interest
At just 21, Yildiz has already established himself as an important player for Juventus and the Turkey national team.
Having progressed into the senior side during the 2023/24 season, the forward has become a regular presence in Turin. His ability to operate from the left, carry the ball into dangerous areas and contribute in attacking positions makes him an appealing option for clubs seeking additional creativity in the final third.
Arsenal were linked with a high-profile move for Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior during the summer as they explored ways to strengthen their wide attacking options. With that move failing to materialise, Yildiz has emerged as another reported target.
His versatility could be particularly attractive to Arteta, who values attackers capable of combining individual quality with the tactical discipline required in his system.
However, Yildiz's immediate availability has been affected by injury. He underwent surgery on a foot injury in late August and has been limited to one appearance this season, with a return expected before the end of the year.
That setback has not diminished the attention surrounding his long-term future, although his recovery and performances after returning to action will be important factors in any potential transfer discussions.
Tudor backed Yildiz to become a ‘truly top player’
Yildiz's potential has also attracted praise from former Juventus head coach Igor Tudor, who previously highlighted the attacker's attitude and commitment alongside his technical ability.
Speaking to DAZN in September 2025, Tudor explained that the forward's professionalism made him stand out in training, suggesting his motivation could help him reach the highest level.
“We rarely say anything to him, whether it's about his playing style or his behaviour,” Tudor said, as reported by GOAL.
“The difference is that inner motivation you have to get there and do what you do, which has to be there every day. Yildiz is proving he does that, and I hope he continues every day. He has all the attributes to become a truly top player.”
Those comments underline why Yildiz is attracting interest from clubs looking for a long-term attacking investment. His development at Juventus has placed him among the young talents attracting attention across European football.
For Arsenal, though, any potential pursuit would depend on more than admiration for his ability. The financial demands of a deal of this size, competition from other clubs and Juventus' own plans for the player would all need to be considered.
A move to the Emirates Stadium remains speculative, but if Juventus open the door to a sale next summer, Arsenal could be among the clubs best positioned to explore a deal for one of their reported attacking targets.
