Real Madrid’s Potential Signing: 18-Year-Old Arda Guler from Fenerbahce
Real Madrid is currently considering the prospect of signing Arda Guler, an 18-year-old attacking midfielder who currently plays for Fenerbahce. Guler’s contract with Fenerbahce runs until 2025 and includes a release clause of €17.5 million, which the Turkish club is demanding to be met in order to facilitate the transfer.
Guler aligns with Real Madrid’s recent transfer strategy, as he is a young and talented player available at a reasonable price considering his potential. However, despite this opportunity, Real Madrid does not view strengthening their midfield as a top priority due to recent acquisitions and contract renewals. The club has already bolstered their midfield this summer with the signings of Jude Bellingham and the return of Brahim Diaz, in addition to extending the contracts of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Dani Ceballos.
Consequently, Real Madrid is exploring alternative options rather than pursuing a traditional signing. One possibility being considered is for a transfer agreement to be reached between Madrid and Fenerbahce, with the transfer becoming effective in 2024, allowing Guler to continue playing in Turkey until then. This approach resembles the deal Madrid made for Endrick, a Brazilian forward who couldn’t join the club until he turned 18.
Another option being discussed by Real Madrid is for Guler to join their reserve team, Castilla, which competes in the third tier of Spanish football. However, the club doesn’t anticipate Guler accepting this proposal. Despite his young age, Guler has already represented Turkey’s senior national team, making four appearances, playing for 145 minutes, and scoring one goal.
Guler’s playing style is versatile, as he can function as a false winger and prefers operating in the center even if he starts from the wing. In his home country, Guler’s style of play has drawn comparisons to that of Mesut Ozil, the former German international who retired in March 2023. Interestingly, Ozil played for Fenerbahce during the 2021-2022 season, coinciding with Guler’s senior debut for the club, and was previously with Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013.
