Manchester City are interested in Arda Guler and have reportedly opened discussions with Real Madrid over the potential signing of rising Turkish star, according to a report from Fichajes highlighted by TeamTalk.
The Sky Blues are believed to have “initiated talks” with the Spanish giants as Pep Guardiola eyes a significant midfield reshuffle ahead of next season.
The speculation has already sparked widespread attention across Europe, given City’s track record of identifying and developing young talent capable of thriving under Guardiola’s high-tempo, possession-driven football.
Guler, who joined Real Madrid in 2023, has impressed with his technique, composure, and creativity despite limited playing time at the Santiago Bernabéu.
His potential move to Manchester could become one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer if negotiations progress.
Guardiola’s midfield puzzle and Guler’s rising value
Guardiola is expected to refresh his midfield in the coming months, a department that has been pivotal to City’s domestic and European dominance but is showing signs of transition.
Rodri’s fitness concerns have disrupted the balance of the side, while young midfielder Nico González remains sidelined with injury. More pressing, however, is the uncertainty surrounding Bernardo Silva’s future.
The Portuguese playmaker, who has been a vital creative force in City’s midfield for years, is reportedly weighing up his options ahead of next summer when his current contract expires.
Given this uncertainty, City’s move for Guler appears both strategic and forward-thinking. The Fichajes report claims that City are “confident” about reaching an agreement for what they describe as a “priority target”, despite Real Madrid’s strong reluctance to sell.
Madrid reportedly view Guler as a “crucial asset for the present and future” and a probably replacement for Luka Modric. This highlighting just how highly the club values the 19-year-old midfielder.
That stance means any transfer would come with a hefty price tag. Reports suggest the Spanish champions would demand a figure in the region of £130 million to even consider parting with their prized asset.
Such a valuation underlines how rapidly Guler’s stock has risen since his breakthrough at Fenerbahçe and subsequent move to Madrid.
However, TeamTalk also cites unnamed sources suggesting there is “pressure from Guler’s entourage” to explore a move, potentially to secure more consistent playing time.
The same report adds that such pressure could “facilitate” a deal, though Real Madrid’s determination to keep the player will make any negotiation complex.
For Guler, a move to Manchester City could present a unique opportunity to work under one of football’s most innovative managers.
As TeamTalk noted, it would give the youngster the chance to test himself in the Premier League, widely regarded as the toughest competition in the world while also increasing his financial rewards and international profile.
Madrid’s resistance and City’s long-term ambition
Despite the growing speculation, reports from Spain suggest Real Madrid are unwilling to entertain any offers for Guler. Manager Xabi Alonso, who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti earlier this year, is said to view the Turkish international as a “key player” and has made it clear that he wants to “keep him no matter what.”
Such statements only reinforce how difficult it would be for City to prise the midfielder away from the Spanish capital.
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Madrid’s position is not surprising given their ongoing strategy of building around a new generation of talent, including Guler, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga. Selling Guler would run counter to that vision unless the financial offer proved too compelling to ignore.
Nevertheless, the report that Manchester City are interest in Arda Guler reflects a familiar transfer philosophy under Guardiola and director of football Hugo Viana: investing in young, technically gifted players who can grow within the team’s demanding tactical structure.
The likes of Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol have all followed similar trajectories, developing into key contributors within a system built on adaptability and intelligence.
