ARSENAL face losing out to Ajax for Arda Guler — the wonderkid dubbed “the Turkish Messi”.
Barcelona, in addition to the Gunners, were among the big clubs to have been tracking the Fenerbahce attacking midfielder.
Arsenal are interested in signing Turkish teen sensation Arda Guler
Ajax are on the verge of pipping the Gunners
But it is understood that Dutch side Ajax are most likely to win the race for Guler if Fenerbahce fail to persuade him to sign a new contract.
The 18-year-old had enhanced his reputation with a stunning goal for Turkey against Wales in last week’s Euro 2024 qualifier victory.
The teenager recorded six goals and seven assists in 35 appearances for Fener last season.
He has two years left on his current contract, which is thought to include a £15million release clause.
Guler – who has also attracted interest from Real Madrid – is highly rated in Turkey.
And he’s held in supremely high regard by retired Turkish-born Germany international and Arsenal star Mesut Ozil.
In fact, Ozil believes the teenager is BETTER than he was at the same age.
He said of his former Fenerbahce team-mate: “Is there a number 10 better than me?
“I can think of a name, I have a brother that I believe in, may God protect him: his name is Arda Güler.”
Guler is also on the radar of Italian big boys AC Milan, whose former midfielder Andrea Pirlo recently hailed the teen.
The former Fatih Karagumruk boss said: “Arda Guler is a very talented player.
“He has the potential to play anywhere in the world.
“He has quality, he can read the game well, and he has great technique.
“If he keeps developing his game, there is no limit to his potential.”
