CELTIC ‘MAKE CONTACT’ WITH REAL MADRID PLAYER AND WANT TO MAKE HIM RODGERS’ FIRST JANUARY SIGNING
Celtic ‘Make Contact’ with Real Madrid Over Arda Güler Loan Move: Brendan Rodgers Targets Turkish Starlet as First January Signing
Celtic have reportedly made contact with Spanish giants Real Madrid over a potential loan move for Turkish sensation Arda Güler. Manager Brendan Rodgers is keen to secure the highly-rated midfielder as his first acquisition in the upcoming January transfer window, with hopes that the young talent can bolster the Hoops’ domestic dominance and European ambitions.
Arda Güler: The Rising Star
At just 19 years old, Arda Güler is already regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in world football. The Turkish international joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2023 from Fenerbahçe in a deal worth around €20 million. Despite his immense potential, Güler has found first-team opportunities limited at the Santiago Bernabéu, with competition for places among Real Madrid’s star-studded midfield, including Luka Modrić, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga.
While Güler’s appearances have been sparse due to a combination of injuries and fierce competition, his technical ability, vision, and creativity have made him a standout talent in training and during limited game time. Real Madrid view him as a long-term project, but a loan spell could be vital in helping him gain consistent minutes and experience at the highest level.
Celtic’s Interest
Celtic’s interest in Güler is a bold statement of intent from Rodgers, who is determined to strengthen his squad to maintain their dominance in the Scottish Premiership and progress further in European competitions. The Glasgow side struggled in the Champions League group stages this season, with creativity in the final third being a recurring issue.
Arda Güler’s ability to operate as a playmaker or wide midfielder could provide Celtic with the spark they need. His flair, quick feet, and ability to unlock defenses make him an ideal addition to a team that thrives on attacking football. Moreover, the prospect of regular first-team football and a starring role in a team with an established domestic reputation could be attractive to both Güler and Real Madrid.
Loan Details and Potential Hurdles
Celtic are reportedly pursuing a loan deal without an option to buy, aligning with Real Madrid’s vision for Güler’s long-term future. However, the deal could face stiff competition from other European clubs, with several teams reportedly monitoring the midfielder’s availability.
Another potential hurdle is Güler’s desire to prove himself in one of Europe’s top-five leagues. While Celtic can offer him European football and a starring role, convincing him to swap La Liga for the Scottish Premiership might require assurances about his role and the team’s ambitions.
Rodgers’ Vision
Rodgers has been vocal about his desire to add quality and depth to his squad in January. Speaking to the media recently, the Celtic boss emphasized the importance of securing “game-changers” to help the team compete on multiple fronts. Güler fits this description perfectly, and his arrival would send a strong message about Celtic’s ambitions under Rodgers’ second tenure.
The Northern Irishman is known for his ability to nurture young talent, having developed the likes of Raheem Sterling and Kieran Tierney during his managerial career. A loan spell at Celtic could provide Güler with the perfect environment to flourish under Rodgers’ guidance, gaining valuable experience in a high-pressure environment.
Celtic’s January Plans
The potential signing of Arda Güler would mark a significant coup for Celtic, who are also rumored to be exploring other reinforcements in January. Rodgers is keen to strengthen across the pitch, but the midfield is seen as a priority, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the future of key players like Matt O’Riley, who has attracted interest from English clubs.
Conclusion
While no deal is yet finalized, Celtic’s reported move for Arda Güler highlights the club’s intent to push boundaries in their pursuit of domestic and European success. The Turkish starlet has the potential to become a key figure for the Hoops, and his arrival would undoubtedly excite fans eager to see their team compete at the highest level.
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Celtic and Real Madrid as negotiations unfold. Should the deal materialize, Güler’s loan spell in Glasgow could be a win-win scenario for all parties involved, offering the player invaluable experience while boosting Celtic’s creative options in their pursuit of glory.
