Tottenham’s main objective during the summer transfer window was to strengthen their attack after a disappointing domestic campaign last season. The Lilywhites added Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons, and Randal Kolo Muani to their ranks, giving themselves a strong chance of competing for silverware under Thomas Frank this term. They also completed the permanent signing of Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich, further bolstering their attacking options.
However, one glaring issue went unresolved. The North London club failed to find a replacement for James Maddison, who suffered an unfortunate ACL injury during a pre-season friendly in August. Maddison’s setback could not have come at a worse time, depriving Tottenham of their most creative outlet just as the new campaign began.
Given how crucial the No.10 role is in Thomas Frank’s system, the Lilywhites urgently needed an attacking midfielder capable of filling Maddison’s void. But Spurs were unable to secure a suitable signing before the transfer window closed, leaving Frank to deal with the consequences of that missed opportunity.
Recent reports suggested that Tottenham are keeping tabs on Arda Guler’s situation at Real Madrid. The Lilywhites view the Turkey international as a long-term replacement of James Maddison and are willing to make him the face of the project under Thomas Frank. However, the report also stated that Madrid are in no mood to lose Guler anytime soon and have set a €150m asking price for his services in attempt to scare off potential suitors.
Echoing the same view, Pete O’Rourke has now suggested the Los Blancos are not planning to entertain any offers for the 20-year-old’s services. Speaking to Football Insider, O’Rourke said,
“I would say it’s probably nearly impossible to sign Arda Guler in January. He’s become more instrumental in the Real Madrid team since the appointment of Xabi Alonso. He’s obviously got the trust of Xabi Alonso. He’s been picked ahead of some of the other real big names in that Real Madrid team.”
The journalist added,
“And to be fair to Guler, he’s rewarded that faith that Alonso has shown him in him with three goals and four assists. Real Madrid are not going to weaken their squad in January because they will be competing for silverware on all fronts, La Liga, Champions League and everything else. So yeah, don’t think there’ll be any possibility of Guler leaving. And as I said, I think he’s establishing himself as a key man.”
Pete O’Rourke believes signing Arda Guler in January is out of question after the Turkey international has established himself as a key player under Xabi Alonso. The journalist also notes that Real Madrid view him as an important player for the future as they look to compete hard on all four fronts this season.
As a result, Spurs must now look to shift their focus towards alternative options instead. The Lilywhites are also keeping tabs on Julian Brandt as a potential option for the #10 role. Signing the Germany international would be cheaper as well, considering that he only has ten months left in his Dortmund contract.
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