Arsenal Eyes Real Madrid’s Rising Star: Guler on the Summer Swoop List
21 January 2026
Arsenal's Pursuit of Real Madrid's Guler
Fresh reports indicate Arsenal are pursuing Arda Guler, the promising Real Madrid attacking midfielder.
The British outlet CaughtOffside says Guler has impressed Arsenal and head coach Mikel Arteta, with the club aiming to seal a deal in the coming summer window.
The same report notes that both Arsenal and Chelsea are keen to bolster their playmaking options with a player valued at around 90 million euros.
Guler has been a target for Arsenal since at least October 2024, while Chelsea have recently opened inquiries about his situation.
A move could give Arsenal a creative spark after inconsistent showings from the side's key creators this season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea remain in the hunt, aware the talent could be available for roughly 90-100 million euros next summer.
Guler, 20, has four goals and 12 assists across all competitions this season, including a recent Club World Cup appearance.
Arsenal and Chelsea have kept close tabs on his status, while Real Madrid have shown reluctance to let him go in the near term.
A source for CaughtOffside says Arsenal are monitoring Guler, but convincing the player to leave the Bernabeu could be the real hurdle.
And there is no January bid, but summer negotiations loom, with Madrid potentially re-evaluating at a 90-100 million euro price.
Guler is a versatile talent who could fit at multiple big clubs, potentially giving Arsenal a midfield pillar at the Emirates while keeping Chelsea in the chase.
The 20-year-old's numbers this season — four goals and 12 assists — reflect his potential when given regular playing time and a growing sense of responsibility.
Arsenal's interest endures, and any deal would require Madrid's approval and a substantial fee, keeping both supporters and bookmakers on alert.
Punchline 1: If Arsenal pull this off, their midfield will be so stacked they might start selling popcorn at the Emirates just to fund it.
Punchline 2: In transfer season, Arsenal chasing stars is like my gym membership: expensive, ambitious, and somehow always renewed for another year.