Transfer blow: Barcelona target decides to join Real Madrid

According to reports in Turkey and confirmed by The Athletic, Arda Guler has agreed to join Real Madrid with Los Blancos beating off a host of competition from European powerhouses including Barcelona.

This comes as somewhat of a surprise as recent reports indicated that the young Turkish star was leaning towards signing for Barca.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed last week that the Catalan giants were tracking Turkish wonderkid Guler, and had opened negotiations for the 18-year-old with Fenerbahce

"Barca president Joan Laporta: “We are talking to Fenerbahce for Arda Guler. All the top European clubs want him. Arda is a very young Turkish player and it’s is true that our scouting department has been following him for a long time.”"

Sporting Director Deco flew to Turkey last week to speak to the Turkish side in person, with reports indicating that Guler has a €17.5 million release clause in his contract.

The talented Guler can play across the front line and his game has been likened to Messi due to his close control. He scored six goals in 35 appearances last season.

Barcelona was believed to be in pole position for the signing of Guler in a deal which would see him remain in Turkey for the upcoming season. But reports on Tuesday indicated that he had chosen Madrid instead.

Barcelona miss out on Turkish talent

It’s important for Guler to maintain some consistency for the purpose of his professional development, and the young Turkish playmaker is keen to ensure he receives plenty of playing time in 2023-24.

This would suit Fenerbahce who are keen to keep their star for as long as possible. Further, the Turkish club is reportedly determined to insert a 20% sell-on clause in any transfer for their talented forward.

Mundo Deportivo indicated that former Real Madrid star Mesut Ozil had called Guler, who he played with at Fenerbahce to try and convince him to put off signing for anyone for another year. But Guler has decided to continue his career in Spain.

It’s easy to see why so many clubs are interested in Guler considering his obvious talent at such a young age. He’s an outstanding passer of the football and glides past players with the ball at his feet.

A transfer which would see him remain in Turkey for another year could be the perfect option for both Real Madrid and Guler.