Arsenal have made initial contact over a potential move for Eintracht Frankfurt forward Can Uzun, but the Bundesliga club’s €60 million release clause could prevent the interest from developing into a formal approach.
The 20-year-old Turkey international is regarded as one of Germany’s most promising young attacking players and has attracted comparisons with Dimitar Berbatov following a series of polished performances.
Arsenal are understood to have sounded out Uzun’s agency, 11WINS, while also exploring a possible deal for Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi, another of the agency’s clients.
One source said: “Arsenal have had some initial contacts about Can Uzun. I can’t say for sure if he’s at the top of their list, but they like him and they’re not alone in that. Eintracht Frankfurt are aware of the interest, but will point to his €60m release clause.”
Aston Villa, Brighton and Everton are also understood to have been monitoring the forward. Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Napoli have previously looked at him.
Frankfurt are in a strong negotiating position because Uzun’s contract runs until 2029. However, sources familiar with Arsenal’s transfer plans doubt the club would pay €60 million for a player who remains relatively unproven.
That could see the Gunners continue to assess the situation rather than pursue an immediate deal. Waiting another year would give Arsenal more time to judge Uzun’s development, while reducing the time remaining on his contract could eventually put pressure on Frankfurt to lower their demands.
Uzun is not currently pushing to leave Eintracht Frankfurt, although more substantial interest from a club such as Arsenal could alter the situation.
