FC Barcelona are broadening their horizons in the transfer market. Keeping tabs on upcoming talents in Europe, a name that has vividly stood out is Arda Guler.
The rising star hailing from Fenerbahçe is gaining consensus amongst the Blaugrana scouts as a potential signing, with a great interest for the youngster from an array of clubs.
The Turkish sensation is only 18, but his trajectory to the top appears unstoppable. Battling it out with the likes of Paris-Saint Germain, Newcastle, Arsenal, Napoli, and Ajax, Barcelona will certainly have their work cut out if they yearn to land Guler.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Istanbul-based club could ask for a modest fee of €20 million. However, with the Catalans’ precarious financial state and tussles with Financial Fair Play, any concessions in the price tag will be favorable. Solutions, like a possible transfer with an option to buy, are thus on the table.
However, Guler’s contract does not expire until the end of the 2024/25 season, so the Turks are by no means necessitated to sell the prospect. The Turkish club is expected to consider offers with a minimum of €20m, as they recognize the significant interest being shown in the 18-year-old.
While Barcelona’s unstable financial status is expected to limit their ability to conduct business, club executives are also aware that signing outstanding young players, who could have legitimate sell-on possibilities in the future, is a potentially sustainable strategy.
When it comes to the teenager’s play style, he is renowned for his close control, vision, and technical aptitude in midfield. The Turk has already made his debut for the national team and draws admiration for his nifty feet in central zones.
Barcelona will be well acquainted with the possibility of other clubs eyeing the youngster and thus will first have to sort out their finances before committing to any concrete links.
Even so, the opportunity to grab one of Turkey’s brightest stars implies they will not easily move past him. Considering the Catalans’ pull and history of providing young stars a presentable platform, convincing Guler to join will be no troublesome task.