Arda Guler Agrees Real Madrid Extension, Ends Arsenal, Man City Hopes

Real Madrid attacking midfielder Arda Guler has agreed a two-year contract extension, TEAMtalk reported, effectively ending Arsenal and Manchester City’s hopes of signing the Turkey international in the near term.

The 21-year-old had been pursued by several Premier League clubs. Arsenal and Manchester City both held talks with Guler’s representatives during the summer transfer window, while Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have also had contact with his camp over the past year.

The English clubs had hoped Guler’s role at the Bernabeu might become uncertain after Jose Mourinho’s arrival as head coach. Instead, Mourinho has backed the player, and Real Madrid’s hierarchy assured Guler that he remains part of its long-term plans. Club president Florentino Perez is also understood to be a strong admirer.

Guler has featured regularly under Mourinho and contributed two assists in Real Madrid’s 4-3 comeback win over Roma on Wednesday.

TEAMtalk reported that Guler agreed the extension in the past week, committing him to Real Madrid until at least 2031. Arsenal and City were informed during the summer that Madrid intended to extend his contract and that negotiations were close to completion.

The agreement represents a setback for Arsenal and Manchester City, which had explored a move for one of Europe’s most highly rated young attackers. With the new deal in place, Guler is now firmly committed to Madrid, leaving his Premier League admirers facing a long wait if they revisit their interest.