Arsenal's New Target Kenan Yildiz: €100 Million Budget

Arsenal's attacking plans have taken a new direction. According to La Stampa, following Vinicius Jr's decision to sign a new long-term contract with Real Madrid — effectively ending Arsenal's hopes there — the London club has turned its attention to Juventus' young star Kenan Yildiz. According to the report, Arsenal's management has identified the Turkish international as a "major signing" target for their attack and is preparing to submit a concrete offer this summer.

According to the report, Juventus have taken a firm stance in response: Kenan Yildiz is not for sale this transfer window, with the club viewing him as an important part of their project. However, according to the Italian press, the club could be willing to sit down at the table should an extraordinary offer arrive, with Arsenal reportedly needing to offer a fee well in excess of €100 million. Should that figure be met, the transfer would become Arsenal's second most expensive ever, behind only Declan Rice.

Yildiz, 21, who delivered 10 goals and six assists in 36 Serie A appearances last season and can play on the left flank as well as in the No. 10 role, is said to have his versatility cited as a further factor behind Arsenal's interest. According to the report, should the club field an offer from AS Roma for the inconsistent Gabriel Martinelli, the funds generated from that sale could be used to finance the Yildiz transfer, potentially turning the interest into a formal approach. Having already added Christos Tzolis this summer, Arsenal are said to be keen to continue reshaping their attack.

Source: La Stampa
Image: Sabah