Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Fenerbahçe’s talented left-back, Ferdi Kadıoğlu, with reports suggesting an improved offer of €25 million will be submitted.

The Gunners’ interest in the 24-year-old Turkish international has been intensifying over the past month, with scouts reportedly impressed by his performances for the Turkish club.

Kadıoğlu himself is said to be keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal face competition from Borussia Dortmund for his signature.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - DECEMBER 4: Ferdi Kadioglu runs with the ball during the Turkish Super League match between Fenerbahce and Sivasspor at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on December 4, 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – DECEMBER 4: Ferdi Kadioglu runs with the ball during the Turkish Super League match between Fenerbahce and Sivasspor at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on December 4, 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

Arsenal are reportedly intensifying their efforts to secure the signing of Fenerbahçe left-back Ferdi Kadıoğlu, with a lucrative offer on the table and another to follow.

Turkish outlet Milliyet claims that Arsenal‘s initial bid of €20 million was deemed insufficient by Fenerbahçe, but the Gunners are expected to return with an improved offer of €20 million plus €5 million in bonuses, totalling €25 million. The 24-year-old defender, who has a contract with Fenerbahçe until 2026, is reportedly keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal‘s interest in Kadıoğlu has been well-documented over the past month. Turkish media reports suggest that the Gunners are actively engaged in negotiations with the player’s representatives and are prepared to meet Fenerbahçe‘s asking price.

Ferdi Kadioglu of Fenerbahce in action during the match. Fenerbahce and Olympiakos faced each other in the UEFA Conference League Quarter final 2nd leg , the match took place at Ulker Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on April 18, 2024. (Photo by YAGIZ GURTUG/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)
Ferdi Kadioglu of Fenerbahce in action during the match. Fenerbahce and Olympiakos faced each other in the UEFA Conference League Quarter final 2nd leg , the match took place at Ulker Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on April 18, 2024. (Photo by YAGIZ GURTUG/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

Journalist Sacha Tavolieri initially revealed Arsenal‘s interest in Kadıoğlu, but noted that official talks with Fenerbahçe had not yet commenced. However, Turkish outlet Türkiye has since reported that Arsenal is “pushing to finalise” a deal and is “at the negotiating table” with the player.

Arsenal scout Romain Poirot has reportedly been impressed by Kadıoğlu‘s performances for Fenerbahçe this season, contributing three goals and five assists. Poirot‘s positive scouting reports have apparently convinced Arsenal of the player’s quality.

While Arsenal‘s interest is clear, the final transfer fee for Kadıoğlu remains uncertain. He is under contract with Fenerbahçe until 2026, giving the Turkish club significant leverage in negotiations. Fenerbahçe reportedly values the Turkish international at €25m, but other reports suggest they might be seeking a higher fee of €30m.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the transfer fee, Kadıoğlu‘s desire to join Arsenal and the Gunners’ willingness to meet Fenerbahçe‘s demands suggest that a deal could be imminent. However, Arsenal faces competition from Borussia Dortmund, who are also said to be interested in the player.

The defender’s current market value is estimated at €20m.