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Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler

Kylian Mbappe arda guler real madrid Arsenal may land Real Madrid's Arda Guler after Kylian Mbappe’' arrival disrupted the team's balance, December 2, 2024. (Created with Canva)
By Selin Hacialioglu
Dec 2, 2024 3:57 PM

Arda Guler, a promising 19-year-old footballer from Türkiye, may leave Real Madrid as Arsenal shows serious interest in the young talent.

Guler has struggled for playing time since Kylian Mbappe’s summer arrival at Madrid, and his frustration could lead to a January transfer.

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid warm up ahead of the La Liga week 15th match against Getafe
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid warm up ahead of the La Liga week 15th match against Getafe, Madrid, Spain on December 1, 2024. (AA Photo)

Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid reduces playing time for Guler, other young talents

Arda Guler joined Real Madrid from Fenerbahce in 2023, signing for $21.6. Injuries kept him out for much of his debut season, but he finished with an impressive record, scoring 5 goals in his last 5 La Liga matches. This season, Guler’s opportunities have dwindled due to Mbappe’s addition to the squad.

Mbappe, who transferred from Paris Saint-Germain, has taken on a central role as a striker, while Vinicius Jr. continues to dominate the left flank. Mbappe has scored 9 goals in 18 matches but has faced tactical challenges adjusting to Madrid’s system.

His arrival has pushed young players like Guler and Endrick down the pecking order, limiting their minutes on the field.

Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler
Arda Guler attacking midfield of Real Madrid and Turkiye during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase against Liverpool FC, Liverpool, England, November 27, 2024. (AA Photo)

Reports indicate that both Guler and Endrick are frustrated with the lack of playing time. Guler, in particular, is eager for more opportunities after demonstrating his talent in the last stretch of last season.

Arsenal and other top European clubs have taken notice of his situation and are considering moves during the January transfer window.

Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler
Arda Guler attacking midfield of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase against Liverpool FC, Liverpool, England, November 27, 2024. (AA Photo)

Arsenal makes inquiries as Arteta looks to strengthen his squad with versatile players

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified Guler as a player who can enhance his squad’s attacking options.

Arteta recently added Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea and continues to develop young talent like Ethan Nwaneri, but he remains focused on improving depth and versatility in Arsenal’s lineup.

Guler’s technical skills and goal-scoring ability align with Arsenal’s needs as they compete for the Premier League title.

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid's head coach follows the La Liga week 15th match against Getafe
Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s head coach, follows the La Liga week 15th match against Getafe, Madrid, Spain on December 1, 2024. (AA Photo)

Spanish media outlets have reported that Arsenal has already contacted Real Madrid to explore Guler’s availability. Madrid, while reluctant to let go of Guler permanently, may consider a loan deal or even a sale with a buy-back clause.

Arteta sees Guler’s potential to make an immediate impact, similar to how Martin Odegaard flourished after leaving Madrid for Arsenal.

Ancelotti addressed rumors surrounding Guler’s future.

(Endrick is) ready to play, doing very well, showing a lot of quality in training. I say the same about Guler. They are young people who are pushing. But the collective idea is to turn things around as quickly as possible.

Can you do that with them? Yes. But the objective is to turn it around; that is the priority. Not to give minutes to one player or another.

Carlo Ancelotti said
Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler
Arda Guler follows the La Liga week 15th match between Real Madrid and Getafe in Madrid, Spain, December 1, 2024. (AA Photo)

Real Madrid balances long-term plans for Guler with potential January moves

Real Madrid sees Guler as an integral part of its long-term strategy, with a contract extending until 2029.

However, the club recognizes the need for a solution that addresses Guler’s desire for regular playing time. A loan deal could give him the experience he seeks without permanently losing a player they highly value.

Guler’s valuation has risen significantly, with transfer experts estimating his worth at £37 million (€45 million).

His growing discontent at Madrid has sparked interest from several clubs, including Arsenal, AC Milan, and Aston Villa. Arsenal’s proactive approach could position them as front-runners to secure his services.

Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler
Arda Guler (L) of Real Madrid in action against Diego Rico (R) of Getafe during the La Liga week 15th match against Getafe, Madrid, Spain on December 1, 2024. (AA Photo)

Juventus hacking incident adds intrigue to Arda Guler’s transfer rumors

Juventus recently found itself at the center of a bizarre incident involving Guler. The club’s official X account (formerly Twitter) was hacked, falsely announcing Guler’s signing.

The post featured a photo of Guler at an airport and read, “Welcome to Juventus, Arda Guler. The rising star of football is now part of the Juventus family.” Juventus quickly clarified that their account had been compromised and dismissed the post as false.

Mbappe’s Real Madrid transfer leaves Arsenal ready to strike for Arda Guler

As the January transfer window approaches, the focus remains on whether Real Madrid will retain Guler or allow him to move.

Arsenal’s interest signals their ambition to strengthen their squad with one of Europe’s most promising young players.

Guler’s talent and hunger for more minutes make him an attractive option for clubs seeking to compete at the highest level.

Last Updated:  Dec 2, 2024 3:57 PM