Speculation linking Kenan Yildiz with Arsenal continues as the Turkey international reportedly welcomes the Gunners' interest. The 21-year-old Juventus forward signed a new contract in February tying him to the Turin giants until 2030, but the club's failure to qualify for the Champions League may force a sale.
Yildiz Welcomes Arsenal Interest
According to TuttoSport, Arsenal have explored a move for Yildiz in recent weeks. The player views the Emirates as a welcome destination. However, Juventus majority shareholder John Elkann has reportedly given short shrift to Arsenal's advances. If needs must, the Old Lady may feel compelled to cash in on the 21-year-old, who could command a significant fee.
Real Madrid U-Turn on Calafiori
Real Madrid's interest in Riccardo Calafiori has cooled after Arsenal slapped a monster price tag on the Italian defender. Los Blancos are rebuilding under Jose Mourinho following a trophy-less season, but Marc Cucurella's £52million switch to the Bernabeu and a £78m bid for Manchester City's Ruben Dias have taken a sizeable chunk out of their transfer war chest.
Despite landing Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool on a free transfer, the centre-back's wages will further eat into whatever remaining budget is at Mourinho's disposal. With £130million already committed, should the Dias deal cross the line, Arsenal's £86m valuation of Calafiori may simply prove too steep, particularly with reinforcements still required in other positions.
Arsenal's Title Defence Preparations
The countdown to the new Premier League season is underway following the unveiling of the fixture list. Arsenal will kick off the defence of their crown against newly-promoted Coventry City on Friday, August 21. By then, the champions will have been active in the transfer market, with both arrivals and departures on the cards this summer.
The market is rather quiet at the moment as the World Cup takes centre stage. However, feverish work is going on behind the scenes to ensure Mikel Arteta's side is as ready as possible for 2026/27, with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea looking for fresh starts under new management.
Gunners fans will also be keeping an eye on the 15 players currently with their international sides in North America, especially the England contingent of Declan Rice, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka.
