Arsenal transfer news: Kenan Yildiz contract stance as manager reveals loan exit chance

Arsenal have remained relatively quiet in the January window with a focus on potential outgoings, while Juventus expect to keep Kenan Yildiz and Oleksandr Zinchenko's loan future is discussed

As we move past the two-week mark of the January transfer window, Arsenal continue to scout for potential deals. The Gunners have been relatively subdued in terms of player movement, as they gear up for another Premier League title push, but they may still be active in the market.

A summer expenditure of approximately £250m has already fortified the north London side, with Andrea Berta infusing the squad with talent and depth across the board. Despite this, manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the team will be proactive in seizing opportunities in the market that they believe will yield dividends and bolster the squad.

Recent rumours have centred more on departures than arrivals, however. Ben White is reportedly attracting interest from Everton, while Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly are rumoured to be eyeing exits during the January transfer window, in pursuit of more game time.

So, let's delve into the latest Arsenal transfer news and rumours as we brace for another bustling day in the market.

Kenan Yildiz transfer update

Juventus are optimistic about keeping star player Kenan Yildiz beyond the January transfer window, despite the uncertainty over his contract situation. According to TEAMtalk, the Italian club anticipates the 20-year-old agreeing to terms and signing a new deal post-January, even though significant progress towards a contract extension has yet to be made.

Yildiz, valued at £87m following a stellar stint with his Serie A side, has caught the attention of Arsenal among others. The Turkish international's contract runs until 2029, but his rise to prominence since his last extension in 2024 has sparked interest from clubs looking to secure his services.

Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit, with rivals Tottenham, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United also reportedly keen on Yildiz. This makes a January move highly unlikely, with his future potentially hinging on a new contract in the coming weeks or months.

Oleksandr Zinchenko loan situation

Nottingham Forest head coach Sean Dyche has confirmed discussions with Oleksandr Zinchenko regarding his future at the club. The defender is currently on loan at the City Ground from Arsenal, having made a late switch to Forest in the summer transfer window under former director Edu Gaspar.

The season-long loan held much promise but has yet to yield significant results for any party involved. Zinchenko has only made ten appearances this campaign and doesn't appear to be a favourite of Dyche, who took over from Ange Postecoglou as Forest's third permanent manager this season back in October.

Dyche has addressed the situation surrounding the player, who arrived at Arsenal from Manchester City for £32million in 2022, revealing discussions that have taken place. Speaking to the press, he said: "We will see what happens. We are being very open with him. He is a thorough professional, he has been and I am sure he will be going forward, no matter what."

The loan arrangement with Forest contains no break clause, complicating any potential early return for all involved. While the Gunners could technically agree to a recall by mutual consent, it's unclear whether they'd entertain such a move, particularly as it would likely necessitate another departure this month.

Transfer warning issued

Former England international Joe Cole has cautioned Arsenal that retaining their entire squad could prove challenging during the transfer window. The issue stems from the depth of quality within the group, with several players finding minutes hard to come by due to the strong competition for places.

Whilst discussing Chelsea's squad composition, Cole referenced Arsenal's transfer approach, telling Paddy Power: "You need seasoned winners in the side. I'd be looking at the PSG squad, which I think is bloated. Players who understand winning and know how and what it means to win.

"I don't think Arsenal are going to be able to keep up with all their players, certain players there will be available at the end of the season."

Players such as Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Ben White are persistently being associated with possible departures during the January transfer window, with a host of clubs showing keen interest in securing their services.