Chelsea and Arsenal Lock Horns in Pursuit of Real Madrid's Assist King Arda Guler
In a major development in the Premier League transfer market, Chelsea are poised to challenge Arsenal for the signature of Real Madrid's highly-rated playmaker Arda Guler. According to recent reports, the Blues have been actively checking in with the Turkish international and his representatives on multiple occasions, signalling a serious interest in the £78m-rated star.
Rosenior's Chelsea Eyeing Key Additions Amid Strong Start
Under new head coach Liam Rosenior, Chelsea have enjoyed a solid run of form, including a narrow 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg and a 1-0 Champions League victory over Pafos. Despite this progress, the club remains keen to bolster their squad in the January window, with Guler emerging as a prime target. Rosenior, who replaced Enzo Maresca, has overseen wins against Brentford and Charlton Athletic, but the Blues are not resting on their laurels and are ready to act in the transfer market.
Arsenal's Historical Interest and the Battle for Guler
Arsenal have long held an interest in Guler, dating back to 2024, and are described as keen on securing his services. However, Chelsea's recent involvement has intensified the competition. Journalist Mark Brus reports that while a move is unlikely this month, both London clubs are monitoring the situation closely, with a summer transfer potentially on the cards. Guler, who has become a key figure under previous coach Xabi Alonso, is not considered untouchable at Real Madrid, though he is focused on earning a starting spot under new boss Alvaro Arbeloa.
Guler's Impressive Stats and Potential Impact
With three goals and 11 assists in 31 appearances this season, Guler has established himself as an assist king in La Liga. His versatility allows him to operate in attacking midfield or deeper central roles, making him an attractive option for Chelsea, where he could provide competition for players like Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer. A source indicated that Real Madrid might demand a fee in the range of €90m-€100m (£78m-£87m) for the talented youngster, aligning with his current market valuation.
What Lies Ahead in the Transfer Saga
As the winter window progresses, both Chelsea and Arsenal are expected to continue their pursuit of Guler, with a summer move increasingly plausible. The high asking price and Guler's commitment to Real Madrid present challenges, but the Premier League giants remain undeterred. This transfer battle highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two clubs and their ambitions to strengthen their squads with top-tier talent.
