Arsenal turn to £85m Juventus winger after Vinicius Jr makes Real Madrid decision
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to shift their attention to another top European winger after their pursuit of Vinicius Junior came to an end.
Mikel Arteta’s side had made the Real Madrid superstar one of their biggest targets this summer following their Premier League title success. However, Arsenal’s hopes of landing the Brazilian were ended when Madrid confirmed that Vinicius had agreed to a new long-term contract keeping him at the Bernabeu until 2032.
With the Gunners still searching for another attacking option before the transfer window closes on September 1, they have now reportedly identified Juventus star Kenan Yildiz as a potential alternative.
According to reports from The Times, Arsenal have already made an enquiry about the 21-year-old, having contacted Juventus in June. At the time, the Italian club made it clear that they had no intention of selling the highly-rated Turkey international.
Arsenal are now expected to intensify their interest following the collapse of their Vinicius pursuit.
Yildiz enjoyed an impressive campaign last season and was named Serie A’s Rising Star, recognising him as the league’s best Under-23 player.
However, convincing Juventus to sell him would be extremely difficult. The winger signed a new contract in February that keeps him in Turin until 2030.
Juventus were reportedly demanding around €100 million (£85.7m) for Yildiz last summer when several Premier League clubs showed interest.
With Arsenal now potentially ready to make a serious move, Juventus could face increased pressure from European clubs competing for one of the continent’s most exciting young attackers.
If the Italian giants eventually decide to listen to offers, Yildiz’s future could become one of the biggest transfer stories before the window closes.
