03 July 2023 , 08:38
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Arsenal have enjoyed a fantastic transfer window so far but former Gunners’ playmaker Mesut Ozil might have ruined the next major move.
The North London side have already sealed the services of Kai Havertz in a £65m move from Chelsea. He could be followed to the Emirates Stadium by Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber, who are set to complete switches from West Ham and Ajax respectively.
Another name that has been linked with a transfer is Fenerbahce youngster Arda Guler. The 18-year-old has shone for the Turkish giants over the past couple of seasons, with his displays garnering plenty of interest.
Touted as the ‘Turkish Messi’, Arsenal have been tracking Guler for some time, whilst Spanish giants Barcelona have also been credited with an interest. Despite the prospect of a big move being on the agenda, Ozil has attempted to intervene.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the German has offered Guler some advice on his future. It is detailed that Ozil has suggested that he should stay with Fenerbahce for the time being to continue his development.
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He has reportedly urged the youngster to think more about his game time at this stage. It is not the first time that Ozil has commented on Guler’s potential.
Arda Guler is being eyed by both Arsenal and Barcelona (Getty Images)Would Arda Guler be a good signing for Arsenal? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Speaking after the youngster’s breakout Fenerbahce showing, he said: “A super goal and a super assist. Quality. You will be a world star.”
In what is a further blow to Arsenal, Barcelona boss Joan Laporta has already confirmed that the Catalans have opened talks regarding a deal for Guler, whilst the club's new sporting director Deco travelled to Istanbul for discussions.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, he said: "He is a very young player, it is true that our scouts have been following him for a long time and many big clubs in Europe want him. We are talking to Fenerbahce.”
Should he pursue a move, Guler would be fresh off the back of the most productive season of his career so far. He made 35 appearances in all competitions last term, scoring six goals and providing seven assists.
Whilst Ozil has urged Guler to remain with Fenerbahce for the time being, the midfielder’s former Genclerbirligi coach Erol Tokgozler expects him to be on the move sooner rather than later.
As quoted by CNN Turk back in March, he said: “I don’t think Arda will stay in Turkey too long. I know that there are offers from Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
“With each passing match, the number of these teams will increase. [Bids of] 20 to 30 million euros for Arda will be very ordinary.”