Arsenal's hopes of signing Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz have been dealt a major blow after the 21-year-old reportedly suffered a foot injury that could keep him out for two to three months.
The Gunners had turned their attention to the Turkey international after a move for Vinicius Junior fell through, with Mikel Arteta said to be 'especially keen' on the player. Yildiz is valued at £85 million and won Serie A's 'Rising Star' award for the best Under-23 player in Italy last season.
Injury during Juventus win
Yildiz started Juventus' opening weekend win over Frosinone on Sunday but came off after 69 minutes, replaced by former Chelsea star Jeremie Boga. Upon returning to Turin on Monday, the player reported a problem with his left foot, according to outlets in Italy including La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The initial diagnosis is not good, with reports suggesting he may have suffered a foot fracture. Surgery has not been ruled out at this stage. Juventus are yet to give an update on the player.
Impact on Arsenal's transfer plans
Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti has publicly stated that he has no intention of selling Yildiz, though a transfer could not be ruled out, especially if Arsenal bank £60 million for Gabriel Martinelli as reported. Martinelli, along with Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus, could all depart the Emirates before the transfer deadline on Tuesday, September 1.
Should the forwards leave, Arsenal may make one more big signing, with Arteta keen to strengthen his attacking options on the left flank. However, the injury to Yildiz leaves the Gunners with one less transfer target for this window. The only other forward Arsenal have been seriously linked with is Julian Alvarez, with the Atletico Madrid star now open to moving to north London.
