Virgil van Dijk Reveals Displeasure Over International Teammate’s Decision to Join Arsenal, Despite Advice Against It

Arsenal has reportedly made the first move toward signing Fenerbahce’s left-back, Ferdi Kadioglu, during this summer’s transfer window, according to Turkish media outlet Nutuk. The 24-year-old defender, who has previously been linked with Arsenal, may have already tentatively agreed to personal terms.

Nutuk claims that Arsenal has submitted an initial bid of £17 million for Kadioglu. However, Borussia Dortmund has also made a similar offer. Despite the interest from these top European clubs, Fenerbahce has set a higher asking price of £30 million, which would be a record for a player leaving the Turkish Super Lig.

Given Fenerbahce’s demands and the competition, it seems less likely that Arsenal will finalize this transfer. Kadioglu, who began his career as a forward and has since transitioned into a versatile defender, is capable of playing in both full-back positions, though he prefers the left side despite being right-footed.

Arsenal’s current depth at left-back, featuring players like Oleksandr Zinchenko, Riccardo Calafiori, Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, complicates the situation further. Kieran Tierney, another option, is currently sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury.

Given Arsenal’s strong lineup in this position, they might not prioritize Kadioglu, particularly as his Dutch background could make him a better fit for a move to another European club, possibly Borussia Dortmund. The speculation surrounding Arsenal’s interest might be a tactic by Kadioglu’s agent to attract attention from other clubs and push them to meet Fenerbahce’s high asking price.

As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal is expected to shift its focus to other areas, such as midfield reinforcement and potentially adding a new center-forward. Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad has emerged as a key target for bolstering Arsenal’s midfield.

While Arsenal has not been actively linked to new strikers recently, this could change if Eddie Nketiah decides to leave. Olympique Marseille has made a new offer for the 25-year-old striker, who is reportedly open to a move. Should Nketiah depart, Arsenal may look to acquire a forward before the transfer window closes.