Real Madrid welcomed their newest addition, 18-year-old Turkish talent Arda Guler, who passed his medical examination and made his debut for the club on the afternoon of July 7 (Hanoi time).
Real Madrid's official website greeted Guler with the message, "Welcome Arda Guler to the club." The young Turkish player has been assigned the number 24 shirt at the prestigious Bernabeu stadium. According to Marca, Real Madrid had to pay a transfer fee of 20 million euros to secure Guler from Fenerbahce. The Turkish club has also included a clause entitling them to receive 20% of any future transfer fee if Real Madrid decides to sell Guler to another club.
Guler has earned the nickname "Türkiye's Messi" among fans, highlighting his talent and technical abilities. Playing as an attacking midfielder, he possesses a strong technical foundation and is left-footed, much like Lionel Messi. Guler has also drawn comparisons to former German international Mesut Ozil, who previously played for Real Madrid.
Real Madrid joined the race to sign Guler later than their rivals Barcelona. The Catalan club reportedly offered a transfer fee of 23 million euros, with an additional 10 million euros in commission, and included a release clause of up to 1 billion euros. However, Guler made the decision to join Real Madrid.
Initially, Real Madrid planned to loan Guler back to Fenerbahce to gain experience. However, they changed their plans at the last minute and included the young player in their squad for the upcoming La Liga season in 2023/24.
Guler becomes Real Madrid's fourth signing of the summer, following Fran Garcia, Jude Bellingham, and Joselu. Additionally, "Los Blancos" have recalled midfielder Brahim Diaz from his loan spell at AC Milan.