Arsenal snubbed as Juventus make their 'next Del Piero' untouchable

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 10 Apr 2024 15:25 BST
  • 4 min read
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
© IMAGO

Juventus are keen to tie Kenan Yildiz down to yet another new contract in a bid to fend off Arsenal and other suitors, according to Italian media.

Article continues under the video

The German-born Turkish wonderkid has enjoyed a swift rise to prominence in recent months. In late 2023, it looked as though Yildiz would be on the exit ramp in January, but coach Max Allegri decided to give the youngster a chance to shine and he grasped it with both hands.

The young attacker is one of the biggest prospects in European football. His return of just one Serie A goal is nothing to write home about, but the versatile 18-year-old is not yet a guaranteed starter in Turin.

READ MORE: From ‘future of Arsenal’s midfield’ to €3m outcast: The downfall of William Carvalho

Indeed, such has been his rise to fame that he boasts the best-selling shirt in the Italian top flight this season and Juventus view the teenager as the potential heir to Alessandro del Piero. Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Old Lady could hand Yildiz the famous number ten in a bid to show him how much they value him.

The Italian outlet also claims that Yildiz could be set for yet another new contract.

Kenan Yildiz
© IMAGO - Kenan Yildiz

Yildiz to be made untouchable

The Turkey international only joined Juventus from Bayern Munich but he may soon pen what will be his third contract with the Bianconeri. Yildiz extended his previous deal until 2027 back in October of 2023 and Juventus are now preparing another bumper new contract.

The Serie A giants want to tie Yildiz down until 2030 and make him 'untouchable.' As one of Europe's biggest talents, Yildiz of course has high-profile admirers, chief among them Arsenal.

Current ETV
Player image Kenan Yıldız
Kenan Yıldız

F (L), AM (CL)

Juventus FC logo

Juventus FC

Kenan Yıldız
Kenan Yıldız

F (L), AM (CL)

Juventus FC

Juventus FC

€7.9M

ETV Range

€6M - €9.9M

READ MORE: Arsenal draw with Bayern a big blow to Man Utd transfer plans

The Gunners are long-time suitors of the 18-year-old and they were circling in the winter before he broke into Juventus' first team. The Bianconeri are keen to signal to Arsenal and other interested parties such as Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig that Yildiz is not for sale and won't be anytime soon.

Never miss the next big transfer!

Get the latest transfer insights and analyses directly in your mailbox.