Arsenal are now seriously exploring the possibility of signing Juventus talent Kenan Yildiz as a potential alternative to Nico Williams, whose wage demands are proving to be a major stumbling block.
The 20-year-old Turkey international enjoyed a productive 2024/25 season, scoring ten goals and providing six assists across all competitions for both club and country. He showed his versatility by performing well not only on the left flank but also in central and right-sided attacking roles.
According to sources speaking to CaughtOffside, senior Arsenal figures have identified Yildiz as a strong candidate due in large part to the influence of Matteo Tognozzi, who previously worked at Juventus and discovered Yildiz during his time there.
Tognozzi is now expected to take up a position at Arsenal under new sporting director Andrea Berta, and it’s believed he is strongly recommending Yildiz as a signing to strengthen the Gunners’ attacking options.
Initially, Arsenal were strongly linked with Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. Outlets like Sky Sports have highlighted this connection, but CaughtOffside reports that Williams’ salary expectations are significantly above Arsenal’s current wage framework.
A source close to Williams’ entourage revealed that the Spain international is demanding a salary of €18 million per year. While his release clause—set at €58 million—is seen as fair, the overall cost, especially the wages, has become a concern for the North London club.
As a result, Arsenal are now actively considering other targets, with Yildiz becoming a more prominent name on the list.
Yildiz, however, will not come cheap either. Two sources have stated that Juventus would likely ask for €80 million if they were to even consider selling him. Others close to the Serie A club suggest they are reluctant to let him go at all. Talks are already underway between Juventus and Yildiz’s camp regarding a potential contract extension that could keep him at the club until 2030.
Despite this, Arsenal remain hopeful, as they value Yildiz and believe the total package could potentially be negotiated closer to €60 million. The club sees him as a long-term prospect who still has significant room for growth.
Yildiz’s dribbling ability and attacking instincts offer something different from current options like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, particularly on the left wing.
Though he may not yet outperform Arsenal’s current wingers in every metric, Yildiz stands out due to his creativity, agility, and technical skill.
He also has the advantage of youth, suggesting he could develop into a world-class player under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, especially in a more attacking and possession-dominant side like Arsenal.
