According to reports from the Turkish outlet Nutuk, Arsenal has taken an initial step towards acquiring Fenerbahce’s left-back, Ferdi Kadioglu, during the current summer transfer window. The 24-year-old defender had previously been linked with Arsenal, with rumors indicating that personal terms between the Gunners and the Turkish international might have already been agreed upon.
Nutuk now reports that Arsenal has made an opening bid of £17 million for Kadioglu. However, Arsenal faces competition from Borussia Dortmund, which has also reportedly put forward a similar offer. Despite this interest, Fenerbahce is hesitant to sell Kadioglu at that price and has set a much higher asking price of £30 million. This amount would set a transfer record for a player leaving the Turkish Super Lig.
Given the current situation, it appears unlikely that Arsenal will complete the transfer. Kadioglu, who started his career as a forward with experience on both wings and in attacking midfield, has since been converted into a defender. Although he is right-footed, Kadioglu has shown his versatility by effectively playing in both full-back positions, with his preference being on the left side.
Arsenal’s depth in the left-back position further complicates the likelihood of Kadioglu joining. The club currently has Oleksandr Zinchenko, who started in that role in their recent match against Bayer Leverkusen. Other options include Riccardo Calafiori, Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Kieran Tierney is also a potential left-back option, although he is currently sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury.
With this strong lineup of players already available, it seems improbable that Arsenal would pursue Kadioglu, particularly as he was born in the Netherlands and might be more suitable for another European club. The speculation surrounding Arsenal’s interest may have been stirred up by Kadioglu’s agent, potentially to attract attention from other clubs, such as Borussia Dortmund, to meet Fenerbahce’s higher asking price.
As the transfer window continues, it is more likely that Arsenal will focus on other areas of their squad. The club may shift its attention to strengthening the midfield and potentially adding a center-forward. Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad appears to be a primary target for Arsenal’s midfield reinforcement.
Regarding the striker position, Arsenal has not been closely associated with any new signings. However, this could change if Eddie Nketiah decides to leave. Olympique Marseille has recently made a new offer for the 25-year-old striker, who is reportedly open to the move. If Nketiah’s departure materializes, Arsenal might then look to bring in a new forward before the transfer window closes.
