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Arsenal Target Juventus Winger Yildiz After Vinicius Stays at Real Madrid

Published 9 August 2026

Arsenal are reportedly shifting their transfer focus to Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz after their primary target, Vinicius Junior, signed a new long-term contract with Real Madrid. The Premier League champions had been monitoring the Brazilian forward's situation closely, but his decision to remain in Madrid has forced the club to pursue alternative options for a left-sided attacker.

The pursuit of Vinicius had been a significant storyline in Arsenal's summer plans. With the 26-year-old having only one year remaining on his previous contract, negotiations over an extension had stalled, leading to speculation about a potential departure. Arsenal were prepared to act if an agreement could not be reached. However, the player's commitment to Real Madrid closed that door, prompting manager Mikel Arteta to re-evaluate his squad-building strategy.

Attention has now turned to Yildiz, the 21-year-old Turkish international who has emerged as one of Serie A's most exciting talents. According to reports, Arsenal view the versatile forward as a viable alternative. Yildiz, who can operate on the left wing or as an attacking midfielder, recorded 10 goals and six assists in 36 Serie A...

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