Juventus sporting director Giorgio Chiellini has provided an update on Kenan Yildiz's contract situation, offering insight into the ongoing negotiations that could ultimately determine whether Arsenal can land their €100m target.
The 19-year-old Turkish international has emerged as a priority target for Mikel Arteta's side, with the Gunners identifying him as the ideal profile to add attacking versatility to their squad.
Chiellini's Measured Response
Speaking to the media, Chiellini addressed the speculation surrounding Yildiz's future with characteristic diplomacy: "Kenan has a long contract with us; everything can't be resolved in a week. Our shared desire is to continue together; we know how important that is. We want to live up to his status."
The phrasing is notable. While Chiellini emphasizes the club's intention to retain Yildiz, the acknowledgment that negotiations require time suggests the process is far from straightforward. The reference to "shared desire" implies both parties must align on terms—a detail that will not have escaped Arsenal's attention.
Form Analysis: Why Arsenal Want Yildiz
Yildiz's recent performances explain the heightened interest from the Emirates. After a spell of inconsistent form earlier in the campaign, the former Bayern Munich youth product has rediscovered his best level: three goals and one assist across his last three Serie A appearances, complemented by decisive contributions in consecutive Champions League fixtures.
His profile offers precisely what Arteta seeks. Primarily deployed as a number 10 under Thiago Motta at Juventus, Yildiz possesses the technical ability and spatial awareness to operate effectively on the left flank—a position where Arsenal require additional depth beyond their current options.
The Financial Equation
The valuation gap presents a significant obstacle. Data from FootballTransfers places Yildiz's Estimated Transfer Value at approximately €69.7 million, with a range between €62.7m and €76.7m. However, Juventus' asking price of €100m reflects both the player's contractual security (his deal runs until 2029) and the premium demanded for a player of his potential.
Furthermore, analysis from SciSports raises questions about tactical compatibility. Their Career Advice tool assigns Arsenal a Club Fit score of just 59 for Yildiz, suggesting potential challenges in terms of development pathway and playing time within Arteta's system.
Strategic Implications
For Arsenal, the calculation extends beyond the transfer fee. Integrating a €100m signing who may require adaptation to a new tactical framework carries inherent risk. The presence of Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze in the number 10 role means Yildiz would likely need to establish himself as a wide option—a position he has played less frequently at Juventus.
The contract negotiations in Turin will be monitored closely. Should discussions stall or Yildiz express a desire to explore opportunities elsewhere, Arsenal's position strengthens considerably. For now, Chiellini's comments suggest Juventus remain committed to finding a resolution that keeps their young star at the Allianz Stadium.
