Real Madrid’s preparations for what is expected to be a dramatic overhaul in 2026 have created growing uncertainty around several key figures at the club.
Among those facing questions about their long-term futures are Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, both of whom have struggled to fully settle under new manager Xabi Alonso.
The pair have endured a slow start to life under the former midfield maestro, and their dip in form has inevitably positioned them as potential high-profile exits.
Yet the Brazilian duo are not the only names drawing attention. Another young talent, Arda Guler, is emerging as a central figure in the early summer transfer narratives, with Manchester City reportedly positioning themselves for a bold approach.
According to information originally published by Defensa Central, Man City want to sign Arda Guler and have been closely monitoring the Turkish playmaker. Pep Guardiola is understood to view the 20-year-old as a uniquely gifted footballer capable of thriving in his midfield structure.
Guardiola’s admiration and a potential club-record deal
Reports from Spain say Manchester City are weighing up a staggering €100 million offer—an amount that would make Guler the second most expensive signing in the club’s history.
For Guardiola, the interest in Guler is described as deeply personal. Those close to the Catalan coach say he regards the teenager as an exceptionally rare profile, one who possesses a blend of technical flair, intelligence between the lines, and spatial awareness that aligns perfectly with City’s intricate positional play.
The admiration is not without reason. Guler has emerged as one of the standout performers of Real Madrid’s season, making a significant leap under Alonso and demonstrating why he has long been regarded as one of European football’s brightest prospects.
His numbers reflect the progress. Guler has already produced three goals and six assists across all competitions, an output that has caught the attention of analysts and senior figures within the club.
His growing consistency has not only secured him a regular place in the starting XI but has also earned him praise from senior teammates.
Toni Kroos, a former Real Madrid player known for rarely exaggerating, commended the youngster’s development earlier in the campaign, highlighting his maturity on the ball and sharp decision-making.
Guler’s chemistry with summer arrival Kylian Mbappé has further accelerated his rise.
The pair have developed an intuitive partnership in Madrid’s attack, with Guler’s creative instincts complementing Mbappé’s explosiveness.
Their link-up play has become one of the defining elements of Real Madrid’s offensive structure this season, and for supporters, it has been one of the club’s most encouraging narratives.
Given his remarkable progress, it is no surprise that Man City want to sign Arda Guler and see him as a potential long-term option for the number eight role—one of the most demanding and specialised positions in Guardiola’s system.
The position has historically been shaped by players like Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva, Ilkay Gündogan, and more recently Bernardo Silva.
Slotting into that heritage would place immense responsibility on Guler’s shoulders, but City appear convinced that he is capable of meeting those expectations.
Meanwhile, while Man City want to sign Arda Guler, securing his signature is likely to be extremely complicated.
Real Madrid, for their part, have no intention of parting with the young midfielder.
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Despite the financial temptation a €100 million offer may bring, club sources insist that Guler sits at the heart of their long-term sporting blueprint.
The Turkish international has impressed his manager with his work ethic, adaptability, and tactical understanding—qualities that have earned him a central role in Madrid’s evolving project.
Also, the trust is mutual. From Guler’s perspective, the likelihood of an early exit appears minimal.
The youngster has worked tirelessly to break into Madrid’s first team, navigating the challenges of injury setbacks and intense competition for places.
Now that he has cemented his status as a regular starter, those close to him say the idea of moving is “not under consideration”.
