Arda Guler, the prodigious attacking midfielder from Fenerbahce, has caught the attention of top-tier European football clubs, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan. However, it seems like Barcelona's hopes of recruiting this dazzling talent might be thwarted by AC Milan, according to RMC Sport, as cited by Mundo Deportivo.
Despite his tender age of 18, Guler has already become an essential figure in Fenerbahce's first team, racking up six goals and seven assists in the past 35 matches. His outstanding performance has also earned him a spot in the Turkish national team, where he managed to score once in his four appearances.
With a release clause valued at approximately €17 million in his contract, Guler has expressed his desire to join a club that can promise regular starting opportunities. This requirement may prove challenging for Barcelona, which already boasts a formidable midfield roster that is soon to be strengthened by the free transfer of Ilkay Gundogan.
Should Guler join Barcelona, he might face a similar predicament to that of Spanish midfielder Pablo Torre in the 2022/23 season, when his playtime was significantly limited. Therefore, AC Milan is now seen as the front-runner in the race to secure Guler's signature, although Fenerbahce is keen on retaining the young star for another year.
This recent development contradicts Diario Sport's assertion that Barcelona was ramping up efforts to land Guler, who they considered a "strategic signing." Deco, the former Portuguese international set to join Barcelona's management team, has been reported to strongly advocate for Guler's acquisition. He believes Barcelona should seize the opportunity to obtain Guler, who is available for a modest €17.5 million.
However, Deco's optimism doesn't resonate with all, as there are doubts about Guler's readiness to join Barcelona's first team. Regardless, this summer promises an array of options for Guler as he continues to draw interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Liverpool, besides AC Milan and Barcelona.
