Turkish 'Lionel Messi': AC Milan Set to Rival Barcelona, Madrid for Fenerbahce Star

• AC Milan are on the lookout to fill the void left by Brahim Diaz
• Barcelona and Real Madrid are looking to strengthen on attack
• Turkish starlet Arda Guler was involved in 21 goals last season

AC Milan are reportedly keen to beat Spanish clubs, Barcelona and Real Madrid, in their pursuit of Fenerbahce star, Arda Guler, who has been likened to Lionel Messi.

The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the top prospects in the world since his debut for Fenerbahce in 2021.

He has broken through into his club's first-team plans since then, helping them lifting the Turkish Cup last season.

Last year, the four-time Turkish international was given a special moniker by a fan. During his team's 2-0 win over Galatasaray in April 2022, a banner in the stands read: 'Arda Guler: The Turkish Messi'.

According to Fichajes, AC Milan have expressed an interest in signing the highly-rated teenager on a permanent deal this summer. They are hoping to beat the competition including Real Madrid and a lurking Sevilla.

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Guler, who has a contract until June 2025 with the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium outfit, has a release clause in the region of €17.5 million.

Should Guler secure a transfer to AC Milan ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, he could prove to be a great coup for them. He would likely fill the void left by Brahim Diaz, who has re-joined Real Madrid.

Meanwhile, the left-footed attacker would be a squad option for Barcelona should he join them. He would provide competition to Raphinha on the right flank and Pedri in an advanced playmaker role.

Guler, who is renowned for his dribbling and vision, has registered 9 goals and 12 assists in 51 appearances for Fenerbahce, averaging a goal contribution at an impressive interval of every 91 minutes.

Real Madrid's interest in Guler

AC Milan may have the edge against Barcelona in signing Guler but wading off interest from Real Madrid will be the major worry for the former Italian champions.

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As reported by AS, Los Blancos are monitoring the Fernabahce prodigy with the aim to boost their attacking options after the departures of Karim Benzema, Marco Asensio, and Eden Hazard.

Barcelona completes Gundogan signing

Sports Brief earlier reported on Barcelona completing Ilkay Gundogan's signing, in a blockbuster move for the Manchester City captain.

The German, who played a pivotal role in a historic treble-winning season, is said to have reached an agreement with the Catalan giants.

Gundogan's contract will reportedly span two years, until June 2025, and includes an option for an additional year based on performance.