Premier League pair Arsenal and Chelsea are working to position themselves as favourites to sign Real Madrid star Arda Guler, according to Caught Offside.

Guler has established himself as a key man for Los Blancos this season having shone for the Spanish giants up until Xabi Alonso’s dismissal earlier this month.

And despite Alonso’s exit, the Turkey international is still in favour at the Bernabeu having started Tuesday’s 6-1 win over Monaco.

The 20-year-old provided the assist for Vinicius Junior’s goal midway through the second half, that Arda’s third assist in the Champions League this season.

Arsenal and Chelsea interested in Real Madrid star

However, despite his increased playing time in the Spanish capital in the 2025/26 campaign, London giants Arsenal and Chelsea are monitoring the youngster with a view to a summer move.

Arda was linked with a Premier League switch over the summer, but Real Madrid were quick to rebuff talk of a potential exit.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea are hoping that Real Madrid’s stance on Arda may soften at the end of the season, though it would take an offer of around €90m to convince the Spanish giants to cash in on one of their rising stars.

Real Madrid expected to name permanent Alonso successor in the summer

Additionally, a managerial change at the Bernabeu may convince the Liga giants to sell Arda in the summer.

Alvaro Arbeloa succeeded Alonso at the Real Madrid helm, though the Spanish side are expected to name a permanent successor for the latter once the current campaign draws to a close.

Real Madrid quickly bounced back from their Supercopa de Espana and Copy Del Rey disappointments as they beat Levante and Monaco in quick succession.

Victory over Levente at the weekend, combined with Barcelona’s 2-1 loss at Real Sociedad on Sunday, means Arbeloa’s side take on Villarreal on Saturday just one behind the defending La Liga champions and league leaders.