According to Tutto Mercato Web (h/t Bernabeu Digital ), Arsenal are preparing to challenge Real Madrid for the signing of Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz, with both clubs considering offers worth €100 million.
Juventus, however, are believed to value the Turkish international at €150 million as speculation grows over his future.
Yildiz is emerging as one of the major names to watch ahead of the summer transfer window. The 20-year-old is considering leaving Juventus at the end of the season if the Italian club fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Real Madrid have already been linked with an initial €100 million offer for the Turkish international, although Juventus are demanding a significantly higher fee.
Real Madrid, Arsenal interested in Yildiz. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)
The Spanish giants could now face competition from the Premier League, with Arsenal also monitoring the situation.
Indeed, as per the report, Arsenal are considering an opening bid of €100 million for Yildiz, despite Juventus' insistence that a larger offer would be required to negotiate his departure.
Mikel Arteta's side considered signing the attacker last summer and have continued to monitor his development as they assess their options for the future.
Juventus, meanwhile, are keen to keep hold of their prized asset. The Italian club are expected to explore the possibility of offering the young attacker a new contract in an attempt to secure his long-term future and fend off interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.
Yildiz wants Champions League football. (Photo by Giuseppe Bellini/Getty Images)
Yildiz's future at Juventus could ultimately depend on whether the club qualify for the Champions League.
The Italian side are competing in the Europa League this season, and the forward is unwilling to spend two consecutive campaigns outside Europe's premier club competition.
If Juventus secure Champions League qualification, Yildiz would be prepared to stay, according to the report.
However, failure to finish in the qualifying places could prompt him to seek a move to a club competing in the Champions League next season.
That scenario would put Real Madrid and Arsenal on alert, with both clubs potentially well placed to pursue a deal if the Turkish international decides to leave Turin.
