Arsenal’s pursuit of versatile Turkish defender Ferdi Kadioglu appears to have cooled, with Brighton now leading the race for his signature according to Fotomac.

The Gunners had been long-term admirers of the Fenerbahce star, who impressed at Euro 2024. However, the recent acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori to bolster their left-back options seems to have shifted Arsenal’s focus.

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Meanwhile, Brighton have emerged as strong contenders for Kadioglu, increasing their offer by €6m to €33m.

The Premier League side reportedly had a €27m bid rejected and have now made an improved bid.

The report claims that the Yellow Canaries rejected a second bid.

Fenerbahce reportedly value Kadioglu at €35m and do not want to accept an offer below their valuation.

Despite interest from multiple clubs, Fenerbahce remain determined to keep Kadioglu, with manager Jose Mourinho keen on retaining the talented defender.

The Super Lig giants want to keep the versatile full back on this summer and will only consider offers that match or exceed their valuation.

Fenerbahce, however, are holding firm on their valuation of €30 million.

Kadioglu can play as full back, centre-back and on the wings, he predominantly plays as a left-back as he did for the Turkish national team at Euro 2024 this summer.

The 24-year-old was a star player for the Turkish side which reached the quarter-final stage of the tournament.