With the January transfer window nearing, Arsenal are ramping up their pursuit to sign the Real Madrid young superstar Arda Guler. The Turkish attacking midfielder dubbed as a generation talent. Mikel Arteta sees the all-purpose star who can be electrifying on the wings or in the centre as a major.
Guler’s Meteoric Rise
Guler has frustration with brief flourishes since 2023 when he joined Real Madrid. But he left Fenerbahce and paid to join the club, EUR20 million, being injured. He has already scored three and seven goals and provided seven assists in only 21 matches, playing 1365 minutes this season. His swagger, foresight, and visionary ability has been likened to Mesut Ozil, his compatriot and his former Arsenal idol.
Arsenal’s Bold Ambition
Arsenal’s interest dates back to the summer. But recent reports confirm they’ve “made a move,” eyeing Guler as a potential upgrade over captain Martin Odegaard. Per 90 minutes, Guler edges Odegaard in non-penalty expected goals and assists (0.74 vs. 0.28), key passes (3.27 vs. 2.39), and shot-creating actions (6.18 vs. 5.61). At six years younger, he’s a long-term investment for Arteta’s fluid attack. Moreover, he can be potentially linking seamlessly with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
The Premier League Rivals Circle
The race is heating up, with Liverpool and Manchester United also intensifying efforts. Arne Slot sees Guler as a Salah successor, valuing his mobility and goal threat, while Ruben Amorim eyes him to inject dynamism at Old Trafford. Manchester City have also floated a Rodri swap, per sources.
Madrid’s Firm Grip
Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, remain reluctant, planning a new contract for Guler as a cornerstone alongside Mbappe and Bellingham. However, a £88 million bid could tempt them if minutes remain scarce.
The Game-Changing Potential
The acquisition of Guler would take Arsenal to the next level of ramping the midfield, which will ignite the dream of the Champions League. To the Emirates believer, it reminds of the magic of Ozil- renewed to the contemporary times. However, as competitors are stalking, Arteta needs to work quickly.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
