Arsenal and Newcastle to clash for signature of Real Madrid’s “next Martin Odegaard”

Soccer Football – LaLiga – Real Madrid v Villarreal – Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain – October 4, 2025 Real Madrid's Arda Guler reacts after a missed change REUTERS/Juan Medina

Arsenal and Newcastle are interested in Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler. Guler has emerged as a key man for Real Madrid under new boss Xabi Alonso, scoring three goals and adding fours assists so far this season. Arsenal are long term admirers of the player, who was dubbed “the next Martin Odegaard” when he joined Madrid as an 18-year-old in 2023.

He has had to bide his time, featuring in a bit part role under Carlo Ancelotti during his first two seasons at the club. He now finds himself a fixture in the XI under Xabi Alonso ahead of many more senior names.

Footballnsider has reported that Arsenal held interest in the player in the summer but ultimately opted for alternatives in their £250m spending spree. They could return for the player in January following fresh injuries to several first team players, but might face competition from Newcastle who are also keen on the Turkey international.

The 20-year-old’s rise in stock could prove to be a stumbling block, with Guler firmly in boss Xabi Alonso’s plans as of now. He’s formed a formidable partnership with Vinicius Junior in a new look Madrid attack and is under a long term contract with the club.

Guler plays mainly as No.10 but can play on either wing as well. Arsenal signed Noni Madueke as cover for Bakayo Saka in right wing, while also pipping Tottenham to the signing of Eberechi Eze as cover for both the No.10 spot or the left wing.

With injuries to both Madueke and Martin Odegaard as well as long term absentee Kai Havertz, Arsenal could be looking to Guler as emergency cover. Newcastle are also on the market for more firepower after losing talisman Alexander Isak this summer.