Liverpool’s hopes of signing young Turkish attacker Arda Guler from Real Madrid this summer have hit a snag.
Reports earlier this week suggested contact between the two clubs, HITC now clarifies that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has no intention of selling the 19-year-old outright.
READ: Who is Arda Guler? The 18-year-old ‘Turkish Messi’ Wanted by Europe’s Biggest Clubs
A loan deal remains a possibility, but Liverpool will need to wait for manager Carlo Ancelotti’s assessment of Guler after pre-season.
Guler himself has no intention of leaving, is happy at Real and wants to stay part of the team beyond the summer transfer window, sources have told Turkish-Football.
We reported several times last season that Guler never had any intention of leaving last season even when he was struggling to break into the team.
The 19-year-old scored six goals with six goals in target when he did eventually break into the team last season and has also impressed at Euro 2024 for the Turkish national team.
Guler’s impressive performances at Euro 2024, including a stunning goal and a Player of the Match award, have further complicated matters.
Depending on how far Turkey progresses in the tournament, Guler’s return to Real Madrid could be delayed until late July.
The arrivals of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick will make playing time scarce for Guler, who only managed 12 appearances last season due to injuries.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes will likely wait to assess Guler’s situation at Real Madrid before making a definitive move. If Guler becomes a fringe player, a loan could become a viable option.
While Guler remains a target, Liverpool might pursue other attacking options while awaiting clarity on his future.