This Turkish wonderkid could be a good replacement for the demoted maestro.
Newcastle United’s investment has been near-flawless thus far, with their transfer dealings meeting all of their needs without having to spend wildly.
With the wide range of alternatives that Champions League football will afford them, they will try to emulate this form this summer.
They cannot, however, afford to let the great names that will become available cloud their long-term aim of restoring St James’ Park to sustainable and continuous success.
Tottenham Hotspur have won the race to sign James Maddison, who has been linked with a move to Tyneside on numerous occasions. He was announced as a new signing on Wednesday evening.
However, as is customary, a fine alternative has emerged, with all assets aligning with their existing transfer policy, which has already yielded excellent outcomes.
Arda Guler is that man, and while rumours claim a price in excess of £20 million will entice him away from his birthplace, this is a tremendous coup in comparison to the £40 million Leicester City paid for Maddison.
Despite being only 18 years old, this midfield master has already earned four Turkish caps, having recently shined for Fenerbahce.
Last season, the teenager contributed 13 goals in all competitions, with his ability to play off either wing equivalent to the Foxes’ 26-year-old star.
Such commanding play in recent years drew the attention of journalist Tom Maston, who dubbed him “the new Ozil” on Twitter.
Guler should be flattered given the level at which the German innovator rose, winning a World Cup as well as a slew of domestic titles in both England and Spain.
The now-retired player was also a valuable asset for Arsenal for a while, taking English football by storm and contributing 123 goals in 254 games at the Emirates.
This contrast lends credence to the thought that he could even be a better option than Maddison, given how he would be granted a slower integration on Tyneside, with less responsibility on his shoulders to perform right away.
This could allow him to make brief appearances as Eddie Howe molds the youngster in his image before releasing him into the league.
The fanbase would have expected fireworks for the money the England international would have demanded. Indeed, ten goals and nine assists in the league for a relegated team was a very remarkable achievement.
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