Fabrizio Romano reveals why Arsenal ended their interest in Arda Guler

Real Madrid have made a strong start to the new season, with three wins from three in their opening La Liga matches. Xabi Alonso’s side have gelled well, and one of their standout performers has been Arda Guler.

Guler had a tough first couple of seasons at Real Madrid, following his 2023 move from Fenerbahce. Carlo Ancelotti was unconvinced, but Alonso has not been – which is why he is so counted upon now.

But as per Fabrizio Romano (via CaughtOffside), things could have been so different for Guler, as it was revealed that he could have joined Arsenal this summer – although when Alonso arrived, that possibility was completed ruled out from all parties.

“There was a club around October-November 2024, from what I’m told, that was prepared to attack in case Carlo Ancelotti stayed at Real Madrid for this season and in case Real Madrid could open doors to the exit of Arda Guler.

“There was a club planning for an attack to try to get Arda Guler before Xabi Alonso arrived and closed every single door for this possibility, as the player also did in the recent years, because he always wanted to play for Madrid.

“That club was Arsenal. Arsenal considered the possibility around October, November again before Andrea Berta got appointed as the new director. But Arsenal last year considered the possibility to go for Arda Guler in case Ancelotti was going to end up staying at Real Madrid and in case maybe they opened the doors to the exit of Arda Guler in a similar situation of Martin Odegaard.

“So they consider that possibility. Then new director at Arsenal – Andrea Berta, new coach at Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso, new life for Arda Guler at Real Madrid starting all games and so no chance – it didn’t become a negotiation. But I can guarantee to you that in the internal conversation around end of October, November 2024, Arda Guler was a topic for Arsenal.”

It’s clear to see why Alonso favours Guler so much, as he has thrived in a deeper role. However, it will be interesting to see whether he continues to play regularly when Jude Bellingham returns from injury – which should happen in the next six weeks.