Arda Guler nearing new Real Madrid deal, denting Arsenal transfer hopes
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Arsenal's reported interest in Arda Guler looks set to hit a significant obstacle, with the Real Madrid midfielder understood to be closing in on a new contract at the Bernabeu.
For much of last season, Guler struggled for regular minutes under Carlo Ancelotti, a situation that drew comparisons to Martin Odegaard's time at Madrid before he eventually joined Arsenal. That parallel had fuelled hope among Arsenal fans that the Turkish international could follow a similar path to north London.
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However, according to Team Talk, Guler has become an increasingly important figure under Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid and is now set to sign a new contract with the club. If completed, the agreement would tie him to Madrid for the foreseeable future and significantly complicate any Arsenal approach.
Guler's rising role under Mourinho
Arsenal had reportedly been tracking Guler's situation in the hope that limited playing time might eventually push him towards considering a move away from the Spanish capital. That calculation now appears less likely to pay off, with his growing involvement in Mourinho's plans reducing any incentive to leave.
A new contract would also strengthen Real Madrid's hand in any future negotiations, giving them little reason to entertain offers while Guler remains a key part of their squad.
Arsenal's wider interest in Madrid's academy
Guler is not the only Real Madrid talent Arsenal have been linked with. The Gunners are also reportedly interested in striker Endrick, who similarly appears to be heading towards an extended stay at the Bernabeu rather than a move to the Premier League.
That leaves Arsenal facing difficulties on both fronts as they look to strengthen their squad with emerging talent from Madrid's ranks. Arsenal may still choose to monitor Guler's situation over the coming months, given that squad roles and managerial circumstances can shift quickly in football. But with a new deal reportedly on the table, any path to a transfer looks considerably narrower than it did a year ago.
For now, Arsenal's focus will likely remain on other targets as speculation over Guler's long term future at Real Madrid continues to develop.
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