Joan Laporta confirms Barcelona are working on transfer of Arda Guler | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that sporting director Deco has flown to Istanbul to finalise the transfer of Fenerbahce sensation Arda Guler.

The Italian wonderkid has attracted interest from several European clubs following his eye-catching breakout season.

Regarded as one of the finest talents in Europe, Guler has a release clause worth €18.5 million in his current contract, which can be triggered this summer.

Real Madrid have reportedly been pushing to sign the 18-year-old alongside other suitors, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan and Sevilla.

However, Barca have overtaken everyone in the transfer race, with Laporta stating that an agreement could be reached sooner.

“Today Deco was in Istanbul,” said Laporta (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

“La Liga allows us to carry out operations for next season without impacting ‘fair play’.

“Arda Güler is a very talented player who Deco likes a lot, and we are trying to close the operation.”

The Blaugrana president added that Guler’s transfer is planned for next year, meaning that the Turkish international could remain on loan at Fenerbahce until then.

The news will excite Barca fans due to the expectation he has created with his potential.

Guler has drawn parallels with Barca legend and Argentine World Cup winner Lionel Messi due to his style of play.

Barca have been a breeding ground for some of the world’s best talents, and the heritage could continue with Guler.

Another promising talent on Barca’s agenda is Athletico Paranaense striker Vitor Roque, with the La Liga champions agreeing personal terms with him.