Arda Guler of Fenerbahce has reportedly rejected Barcelona’s offer and instead opted to join their fierce rivals, Real Madrid.
The 18-year-old, considered one of Europe’s most promising talents and likened to Lionel Messi, is set to sign with the 14-time Champions League winners.
According to The Athletic, Barcelona made significant efforts to attract the attacking midfielder, but he ultimately chose Real Madrid.
The deal is expected to be finalized this week, with Real Madrid paying slightly over Guler’s €17.5 million release clause.
Guler, who has already earned four caps for the Turkish national team, has played 51 matches for Fenerbahce, scoring four goals and providing nine assists.
Additionally, Madrid is reportedly willing to offer more than the release clause and Fenerbahce will retain a 20% sell-on clause.
The signing of Guler would be part of the club’s policy of attracting young talent, which has brought the club so much success in recent years, and which this season has had another chapter with the signing of Jude Bellingham when he was only 19 years old.
Fine season at Fenerbahce
In the 2022-23 season, he made 35 appearances, scoring six goals and registering seven assists for Fenerbahce.
One of his most recent and best performances came in the Turkish Cup final when they defeated Basaksehir 2-0.
He was decisive with an assist and he picked up the Man of the Match award.
Milan joins Guler transfer race
In a previous report, Sports Brief stated AC Milan are also keen to beat Barcelona and Real Madrid, in their pursuit of Fenerbahce star, Guler, who has been likened to Lionel Messi.
Guler has since broken through Fernerbahce’s first-team plans, helping them lift the Turkish Cup last season.
Should Guler secure a transfer to AC Milan ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, he could prove to be a great coup for them. He would likely fill the void left by Brahim Diaz, who has re-joined Real Madrid.