Williams, who impressed with Athletic Club and Spain, had been identified as a priority wide option for Arsenal. But with his wages reportedly exceeding £200,000 per week, the club are reluctant to break their current structure for a player who would not arrive as an undisputed starter.
Enter Yildiz – a versatile and technically gifted attacker who can play both centrally and out wide. He made 35 appearances (28 starts) for Juventus in Serie A last season.
Arsenal’s interest reflects a strategy led by Andrea Berta, the club’s new transfer chief, to find high-upside players who fit Mikel Arteta’s dynamic system without breaking the bank. Yildiz is currently valued at €45million on Transfermarkt.
However, Arsenal are not alone. Juventus are reportedly in talks with Yildiz over a new contract to secure his long-term future in Turin. The Italian giants are keen to reward the teenager’s progress and fend off growing Premier League interest.
Arsenal’s need for attacking reinforcement had also seen them table a contract offer for Leroy Sané, who scored 11 goals last season. But any hopes of bringing the former Manchester City star back to England have now ended, with the German winger completing a surprise move to Galatasaray.
In addition to bolstering their forward options, Arsenal are also in the market for a new defender. The Gunners are reportedly preparing a £40million move for England international Marc Guehi after missing out on Dean Huijsen. The Crystal Palace centre-back is seen as a strong fit for Arteta’s system and could add depth and composure to the backline.
