Arsenal contact Yildiz confirmed as Juventus star’s contract talks stall

Arsenal contact Yildiz story has escalated again in Italy, where journalist Gianni Balzarini insists the Premier League leaders have made a genuine enquiry for Juventus talent Kenan Yildiz. The 20-year-old, one of the brightest emerging attackers in Serie A, is currently negotiating a new contract in Turin — a process that has stalled and opened the door to transfer speculation.

Across the last month, Italian outlets have repeatedly linked Arsenal with admiration for the Turkish international. Yildiz has enjoyed a breakthrough season, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 18 appearances while displaying the versatility Mikel Arteta’s system typically demands.

But with Juventus keen to renew his deal and the player requesting higher wages, questions have emerged over whether Arsenal’s name is being used tactically to apply pressure. Balzarini believes the interest is genuine, even if no bid is close.

Juventus are determined to extend Yildiz’s contract, especially with Luciano Spalletti seeing him as a long-term centrepiece. But the numbers reveal why negotiations are moving slowly:

From the player's perspective, a rise toward €6–7m reflects his status among Juventus' new generation. From the club's viewpoint, that figure places him alongside established senior players — hence the delay.

Italian media widely suggest Yildiz’s camp may find it convenient to amplify Arsenal’s interest to strengthen their leverage. But Balzarini argues the enquiries are real, even if informal.

The Gunners have been consistent in targeting young, multi-functional attackers capable of playing across midfield and forward lines. Yildiz fits the profile perfectly: right-footed, dynamic, capable in tight spaces and developing at a rapid rate.

From a tactical standpoint, he offers qualities combining with midfielders and attacking the half-spaces. Arteta has shown a willingness to recruit players in this mould, especially those who can operate as hybrid No.8/No.10 profiles.

Having tracked Arsenal’s transfer behaviour closely, this situation has familiar traits. The club often makes information-gathering enquiries early in a cycle, even when no negotiations are imminent. In our view, that doesn’t necessarily mean they intend to sign Yildiz now — especially while they are prioritising a striker and defensive reinforcement in January.

Although some Italian outlets may exaggerate Arsenal's intent, it’s worth questioning whether Juventus’ hesitation has created the perception of a wider market than may actually exist. The player’s camp clearly benefits from Premier League interest, real or rumoured.

But the key takeaway is this: Arsenal have checked in — and Juventus must now respond in a way that convinces Yildiz of their long-term project.

As Yildiz’s performances improve, the cost of renewing him rises. The longer Juve wait, the more outside clubs — not only Arsenal — will sense opportunity. The player knows he is now a starter-level talent in a squad undergoing transition. His salary demands reflect that reality.

For Juventus, the risk isn’t losing him immediately — it’s allowing uncertainty to linger into the summer window.

Juventus will attempt to accelerate renewal talks, while Arsenal continue to monitor Yildiz’s progress without committing to formal discussions. If negotiations stall into spring, the Gunners and other European clubs may become more involved.

👉 Arsenal fans — would Yildiz be a smart long-term signing, or should the club focus elsewhere?