Arsenal are actively laying the groundwork for future squad strengthening, with significant developments reported on two separate transfer fronts this week. The Gunners have reportedly opened talks with a powerful intermediary regarding a Serie A star, while also securing a deal for two highly-rated teenage prospects from South America.
Gunners Pursue Juventus Attacker Through Super-Agent
Mikel Arteta's recruitment team has made contact with renowned super-agent Jorge Mendes to discuss the potential availability of Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz, according to Italian media. The 20-year-old Turkish attacking midfielder has impressed at the Turin club, attracting attention from several top European sides, including Premier League rivals Chelsea.
While Mendes is not Yildiz's official representative, he has been tasked with sounding out interest in the player. Contract negotiations between Yildiz and Juventus have reportedly stalled. The Italian giants are said to have offered a new deal worth approximately £4.4 million per year, but the player is holding out for closer to £6 million annually.
Beyond financial terms, the talented youngster is eager for assurances about his role, seeking to become a central figure in the team's project. With his current contract running until 2029, Juventus hold a strong position, but the ongoing impasse has alerted suitors like Arsenal, who are said to be "captivated" by his performances this season.
Arsenal Secure Future with Ecuadorian Twin Signings
In a move focused on long-term development, Arsenal have reportedly won the race to sign Ecuadorian teenage sensations Edwin and Holger Quintero. The 16-year-old twin brothers, who play as a right winger and an attacking midfielder respectively, have been in London this week to finalise their move from Independiente del Valle.
The duo will sign agreements that will see them officially join the North London club in August 2027, when they turn 18. Although neither has yet made a senior professional appearance, both have represented Ecuador at under-17 level, which aids in securing a UK work permit under the Football Association's points-based system.
Their signature represents a significant coup for Arsenal's academy, as European heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain were also monitoring the pair. Their former coach, Diego Burbano, has drawn lofty comparisons, stating they remind him of Brazilian legend Ronaldinho for their technical flair and capacity for spectacular play.
Transfer Plans Unfold Amidst Title Race Pressure
These strategic moves come as Arsenal continue their push for the Premier League title. The team's lead was trimmed to five points after a 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday, a match where Mikel Merino's goal salvaged a point after Trevoh Chalobah's opener for the ten-man Blues.
With a hectic schedule seeing them host Brentford on Wednesday before travelling to Aston Villa on Saturday, Arteta is demanding focus on immediate matters. However, the club's hierarchy is clearly working diligently behind the scenes to build for both the imminent January window and the years ahead, blending established talent like Yildiz with prodigious young prospects like the Quintero twins.
