Arsenal are reportedly considering a bold move to sign Real Madrid's highly-rated midfielder Arda Guler as the January transfer window opens, while the club could also be set for a significant financial boost from the sales of former players.
Gunners Admire Real Madrid Sensation
Despite sitting top of the Premier League table for 12 consecutive weeks, manager Mikel Arteta is exploring options to further bolster his squad. According to reports, the north London club holds a strong admiration for Real Madrid's 20-year-old Turkish international, Arda Guler.
Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy are said to be keen on structuring a deal for the young playmaker this month. However, any move faces a major hurdle as the Spanish giants are currently unwilling to part with the player, who has impressed his manager, Xabi Alonso.
Alonso himself has lavished praise on Guler, comparing his unique talent to former Madrid stars. "With his quality, he’s a mix between Özil and Guti," Alonso stated earlier this season. "Arda has that something special — that natural talent you can’t teach."
Potential January Transfer Windfall
While a major signing like Guler may prove complex, Arsenal's finances could receive a timely injection thanks to shrewd past business. The club stands to profit from sell-on clauses inserted into the deals of two former defenders: Nuno Tavares and Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
Tavares, now at Lazio, is in talks with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. Arsenal sold the Portuguese full-back to the Italian club last summer for around £7.5million and included a sell-on clause reported to be between 25% and 35% of any future fee.
Meanwhile, 21-year-old Norton-Cuffy, who joined Genoa in August 2024 for £1.75m plus bonuses, is attracting interest from Serie A heavyweights Juventus and Inter Milan. Arsenal also negotiated a sell-on clause in his transfer, meaning any sale would directly benefit the Gunners' coffers.
Title Charge Gathers Momentum
This potential transfer activity comes as Arsenal's Premier League title challenge gathers serious momentum. The team cemented their place at the summit with a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday, 31st December.
Arteta's squad has also been strengthened by the recent returns from injury of key players Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Magalhaes. With Manchester City appearing to be their primary rival for the crown, the January window represents a strategic opportunity to enhance the squad for the gruelling final months of the season, where they remain active on all four competitive fronts.
