Arsenal are keeping a close eye on Arda Guler’s situation at Real Madrid, according to reports in the Spanish media.

The Turkish international has made nine starts in all competitions under head coach Xabi Alonso this season but there are doubts over his long-term future at the Bernabeu.

Grada3.com report that Arda’s game time is likely to decrease significantly once Jude Bellingham recovers full fitness.

When that happens, the 20-year-old will have to make a decision on whether he wants to stay, and there is a growing sense that he will bid “farewell” to the La Liga giants.

Six teams are following Arda’s situation

It is believed that the likes of Newcastle, AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Tottenham are interested in signing the attacking midfielder, along with Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side are reportedly among the favourites for several reasons. Firstly, Arda has made it clear that he won’t leave Real if it means playing for a smaller club, and the Gunners would be regarded as one of the few teams he’d be open to joining.

Secondly, the London club have a longstanding interest in the player, having contacted him last season when he wasn’t a regular starter, and that relationship could hold them in good stead if he becomes available in January or at the end of the season.

Do Arsenal need another no.10?

While Grada3.com insist that the Gunners are “willing” to make a move for Arda, you have to be somewhat sceptical about this transfer rumour.

Although captain Martin Odegaard is currently injured, Arteta has several players who can provide cover. In addition to Eberechi Eze, who was signed for £67.5m in the last transfer window, youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman are also at the disposal of the manager.

Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here