Kenan Yıldız, the 20-year-old Turkish forward making waves at Juventus, is at the center of a growing transfer buzz. Reports say Arsenal are keeping a close eye on him as talks over a new contract in Turin have stalled.
Yıldız currently earns around €1.5 to €1.7 million a year, with his deal running until 2029. But he and his representatives are pushing for a big increase – to about €6 million per season. Juventus have offered something closer to €5 million, and the two sides haven’t been able to bridge the gap yet. Club officials, such as sporting director Giorgio Chiellini, have maintained their composure, expressing a desire for a calm resolution to the contract standoff.
The young attacker has impressed since breaking into the Juventus first team. This season, he’s chipped in with goals and assists, even though the team has had some ups and downs in Serie A. His versatility – he can play across the front line – and his eye for goal have caught attention from several big clubs.
Arsenal seem to be leading the interest from the Premier League. Mikel Arteta has a good track record with young forwards, bringing the best out of players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Sources say the Gunners have even been in touch with Yıldız’s camp, and Arteta likes what he sees in the Turkey international. If Juventus can’t sort out a new contract soon, Arsenal could make a move, possibly in the summer of 2026 rather than this January.
They’re not alone, though. Chelsea have been linked for a while and reportedly made a bid last year that got turned down. Manchester United and Liverpool are watching too. Over in Spain, Real Madrid are interested, with some reports saying Xabi Alonso has recommended him.
Juventus aren’t keen to sell their talented youngster. They see him as a key part of their future and have talked about extending his deal to 2030 or beyond. But with his long contract giving them leverage, any sale would likely cost around €100 million – or more – if it happens.
For now, the situation is wait-and-see. Yıldız has said he feels good at Juventus, but the salary disagreement has opened the door to speculation. Arsenal fans might hope this drags on a bit longer, giving their club a chance to land one of Europe’s most promising attackers.
The January transfer window is just around the corner, but most expect any real action on this to come later. Juventus will push to tie him down, while clubs like Arsenal stay ready in case things fall apart. It’s one of those stories that could rumble on for months.
Yıldız’s rise has been quick. He came through Bayern Munich’s academy before moving to Juventus in 2022. Since then, he’s scored important goals, including in the Champions League, and become a regular for Turkey. At 20, he’s got plenty of time ahead, but where he spends the next few years could shape his career big time.
Arsenal, sitting strong in the Premier League, could offer him regular football and a shot at trophies. That’s appealing for any young player. But Juventus won’t let him go easily. We’ll know more soon as talks continue in Turin.
