Tottenham Hotspur remain highly interested in Arda Guler, the 20-year-old Turkish midfielder from Real Madrid, whose position under manager Xabi Alonso appears uncertain. Despite an encouraging start to the 2025–26 season, recording three goals and four assists in 10 appearances, Guler has yet to secure a consistent starting role in his preferred central attacking midfield position. Alonso’s tactical shifts between a 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 formation have limited his opportunities, while the impending return of Jude Bellingham adds further competition. With established figures like Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde unlikely to be displaced, Guler’s long-term future at the Bernabeu remains unclear.
Newcastle United, AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Tottenham Hotspur, and Arsenal are all reportedly monitoring the situation. However, according to Spanish outlet Grada, only Tottenham possess the financial strength to complete a potential deal for the midfielder.
Tottenham view Guler’s uncertain situation as an opportunity. The team currently sits second in the Premier League with one of the best defensive records in the division, though creativity from midfield remains an area for improvement. Guler’s playing style aligns with Thomas Frank’s system, which emphasizes quick transitions, intelligent positioning, and fluid build-up play. His passing ability and close control would offer Spurs an additional creative outlet against compact defences.
Guler’s arrival would also help manage the club’s demanding schedule across the Premier League, domestic cups, and Europa League. The creative workload currently rests heavily on a select few players, and his inclusion would allow for more effective rotation, reducing fatigue and injury risks later in the season.
The attacking midfield position would experience the greatest impact. James Maddison remains the first choice once fit, with his set-piece quality and vision central to Frank’s tactics. However, Guler’s versatility could allow Maddison to operate slightly deeper when needed, adding new dimensions to Spurs’ possession play and improving control in transitions. For Xavi Simons, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer, increased competition could either elevate his performances or limit his minutes—potentially prompting further movement in the squad next season.
