Dream Arsenal winger reveals his immediate intentions amid transfer talk
Arsenal-linked Kenan Yildiz says he “misses” playing for Juventus as the winger steps up his recovery from a broken foot.
Yildiz has not featured for the Italian heavyweights since sustaining the injury in a league clash with Frosinone in August.
And his talent has been sorely missed by Juventus, who have won just four of their last nine games under manager Luciano Spalletti.
However, Yildiz says he hopes to return to the Bianconeri fold in December, before the Serie A season pauses for the winter break.
After receiving the Bulgarelli-Number 8 award on Monday, Yildiz told Sky Sports Italia: “I’m doing well and I hope to return to playing soon.
“I miss Juventus, and I also miss the feeling of playing football. I think you’ll see me back on the pitch in December.”
The Bulgarelli-Number 8 prize, named after Italy icon Giacomo Bulgarelli, is an annual award given to the best midfielder of the previous calendar year.
Yildiz was a standout performer for Juventus in 2025-26, recording 14 goals and 10 assists as the club finished sixth in Serie A.
Arsenal continue to be linked with Yildiz
Despite missing out on signing Yildiz in the summer, Premier League champions Arsenal continue to be linked with the forward.
#JuveSassuolo 1-0 https://t.co/AxDJeXCL6F
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) March 21, 2026
The Athletic understands the Gunners made an enquiry for Yildiz before the start of the 2026-27 season but Juventus refused to sell.
Yildiz has recorded 27 goals and 21 assists in 132 games for the Serie A giants - an impressive return given he only turned 21 in May.
Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport claims Turkey international Yildiz holds a valuation of at least €100million (£83.5m).
Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror understands Arsenal retain an interest in signing Yildiz ahead of the January transfer window.
The same newspaper claims Mikel Arteta’s side are also admirers of Bournemouth star Eli Junior Kroupi, who is valued at around €120m (£100m).
The 20-year-old scored 13 Premier League goals last term to help the Cherries finish sixth and qualify for this season’s Europa League.
However, Bournemouth reportedly do not want to sell the marksman, who is easing his way back to full fitness after missing the start of the campaign.
Kroupi has made four substitute appearances for Bournemouth this term after sustaining a foot injury in pre-season.
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