Real Madrid
Real Madrid
Arda Guler appears set to continue his career at Real Madrid after attracting interest from several leading English clubs. Arsenal and Manchester City explored a possible move for the Turkish playmaker, but their plans have suffered a setback after he agreed to extend his stay at the Spanish club, as per latest news.
Arsenal and Man City miss out on Arda Guler
Both Arsenal and Manchester City were keen to strengthen their attacking options during the summer transfer window. Arda Guler emerged as a potential target, with the two clubs holding talking to his representatives to discuss what a move to England could offer him.
As reported by TEAMtalk, the Premier League sides hoped there might be an opportunity to sign the midfielder if his role at Real Madrid became less secure. However, the situation developed differently, with the club continuing to show confidence in the 21-year-old.
Real Madrid’s leadership is understood to view Guler as an important part of its future plans. Club president Florentino Perez is also reportedly a big admirer of the Turkey international, giving the English clubs another obstacle in their pursuit.
Arsenal and City were not the only teams to show interest. Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have also contacted Guler’s camp recently. Despite that attention, the La Liga club have remained determined to keep hold of one of their promising young players.
New contract strengthens Guler’s Real Madrid future
Guler’s position at Real Madrid has improved since Jose Mourinho took charge. The new head coach has shown faith in the attacking midfielder by giving him regular opportunities, helping him strengthen his place in the team. His recent performances have offered further evidence of his value. Guler provided two assists in Madrid’s thrilling 4-3 comeback victory over Roma on Wednesday, making a contribution in a match that highlighted his creative ability. His progress has also helped settle questions about his future. Guler agreed to a two-year contract extension over the past week. The new deal is expected to keep him at the Bernabeu until at least 2031.
Arsenal and Manchester City had been made aware last summer that Madrid wanted to extend his contract. Talks were already moving towards an agreement, making it increasingly difficult for either English club to convince him to leave. The new deal would give Madrid greater security over Guler’s future while rewarding his growing importance to the squad. It also sends a clear message that the club sees him as more than just a short-term option.
Guler’s Real Madrid stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Successful Passes(%)
La Liga 33 4 9 90.7%
Copa del Rey 2 0 1 92.2%
Champions League 14 2 4 88.0%
Real Madrid
Real Madrid
English clubs face a long wait
Guler’s decision is a blow to Arsenal and Manchester City, both of whom had hoped to add his creativity to their attacks. His technical ability and attacking instincts made him an attractive option, particularly for clubs looking to strengthen their squad for domestic and European football.
Real Madrid’s support makes a move away unlikely for now. Guler is getting regular game time under Mourinho and has a long-term contract. These factors give him good reason to stay in Spain. His new deal does not mean English clubs will lose interest forever. However, signing him would be difficult. If Madrid ever decide to sell, they would be in a strong position to demand a high fee.
For now, Arsenal, Manchester City and other English clubs will have to look at different attacking options. Guler looks set to stay at Madrid, where the club want to help him grow into an even more important player.