Newcastle are now in talks to sign Arda Guler – a player Everton ignored the chance to snap up in 2021 following a recommendation.
The Magpies – according to Ajansspor – have made contact with Fenerbahce over a deal for the Turkish wonderkid, with negotiations taking place in Dubai.
If a move materialises, Everton will surely kick themselves.
Newcastle target Arda Guler
Well, the deal is said to be worth €20m (£17m).
Ajansspor claim that Newcastle are seriously interested in Guler, and discussions have even taken place with the 18-year-old’s family.
Interest from the Magpies and Eddie Howe comes after the teenager scored six goals and provided four assists in 30 appearances for Fenerbahce in all competitions this season.
Guler’s playing style has been likened to Mesut Özil, with the Express just one of many outlets who have made the comparison.
The German himself has even praised the Fenerbahce No.10 previously.
As quoted by Football London, Özil told Guler: “A super goal and a super assist. Quality. You will be a world star.”
Everton could have signed Arda Guler
Interestingly, Everton were actually told to look at signing Guler by Cenk Tosun back in 2021, after the Toffees asked the striker about Turkey’s brightest young talents.
However, Everton never acted on the recommendation.
Ajansspor quote Tosun as saying: “Everton asked me last year (about some of Turkey’s most exciting young talent). I mentioned Arda from Fenerbahce. They looked but did not make a move because he was under 18.”
Now, if Newcastle end up signing the Turkey international as they prepare for a return to the Champions League, Everton will surely regret their decision to ignore him.
Be sure to keep an eye on the situation, as Newcastle can easily afford the rumoured £17m fee thanks to their newfound riches under Saudi Arabian ownership.
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