Report: Liverpool and Arsenal in the Race to Sign 19-year-old Real Madrid Star | OneFootball

Unpacking Arda Guler’s Potential Transfer: A Premier League Opportunity?

Caught Offside recently highlighted the ongoing interest from Arsenal and Liverpool in Real Madrid’s Arda Guler, shedding light on the complexities of his situation at the Bernabeu. As the 19-year-old Turkish midfielder struggles for playing time under Carlo Ancelotti, the Premier League giants appear to be circling, possibly ready to pounce on the opportunity to secure his services.

Arsenal and Liverpool’s Transfer Battle Heats Up

Arda Guler, once deemed an “untouchable” asset by Real Madrid, now finds himself on the fringes of the first team, prompting speculation about his future. Despite his evident talent, Ancelotti’s current tactical setup leaves little room for him, creating a potential opening for Arsenal and Liverpool, both of whom have previously expressed interest in the young star.

Caught Offside reports that both clubs have kept close tabs on Guler, with Arsenal potentially viewing him as a vital addition to provide depth behind key players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard. Liverpool, on the other hand, might see Guler as a strategic acquisition to bolster their attack, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future and the need for more consistency up front.

Photo: IMAGO

Real Madrid’s Dilemma: Hold or Sell?

Real Madrid faces a conundrum with Guler. Initially acquired with high expectations, his lack of game time could be seen as a wasted opportunity for both player and club. As Ancelotti juggles his squad options, the decision to keep Guler may hinge on his long-term strategy and the dynamic nature of the club’s attacking resources.

Premier League: A New Dawn for Guler?

For Guler, a move to the Premier League could represent a fresh start and a chance to prove his worth on one of the world’s biggest footballing stages. Both Arsenal and Liverpool offer environments where young talents can thrive under progressive coaching. The question remains, however, on how quickly he could adapt to the English game’s physical and fast-paced nature.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Arda Guler’s Season in Focus

Arda Guler’s Attacking Prowess

Arda Guler’s performance data, captured meticulously by Fbref, illuminates the attacking skills that make him such a coveted asset among top European clubs. With 669 minutes played last season, Guler’s metrics in shot creation and execution are impressive. He ranks in the 87th percentile for assists and a remarkable 88th percentile for non-penalty expected goals (npxG), highlighting his ability to find and exploit scoring opportunities.

Possession Metrics That Tell a Story

In terms of ball possession, Guler exhibits an elite level of skill in maintaining and distributing the ball. His pass completion percentage is in the 94th percentile, paired with a strong showing in progressive passes where he ranks in the 90th percentile. These statistics underscore his effectiveness in transitioning the ball forward, a trait that Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool find particularly appealing.

Defensive Contributions

While primarily known for his offensive capabilities, Guler also contributes defensively, shown by his percentile rankings in blocks (87th) and clearances (96th). This aspect of his game may not be the headline attribute but indicates a well-rounded player who understands the demands of modern football where defensive efforts from attacking players are increasingly valued.

Arda Guler’s performance stats offer a detailed view into why he’s highly rated across Europe. His ability to perform consistently well in key areas of attacking and possession, combined with his adequate defensive work, makes him a top target for any club looking to bolster their squad with a versatile and promising young talent.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal fan, the prospect of Arda Guler joining the Gunners is genuinely exciting. His skill set seems tailor-made for the Premier League, and under Arteta’s guidance, he could develop into a formidable force in midfield. Given Arsenal’s occasional struggle with depth, Guler’s versatility would be a significant boon. He could provide necessary backup for Odegaard and even offer different tactical options in matches where creativity is stifled.

Moreover, Arsenal’s proactive approach in the transfer market has been commendable, and securing a talent like Guler would further emphasize their intent to remain competitive at the highest levels. The excitement around his potential arrival speaks volumes about the club’s ambitions and the direction they are headed. If Guler does make the switch, it could be a pivotal moment not only for his career but also for Arsenal’s future prospects.