Brighton 'agree' £25.4m deal to sign Arsenal, Man United-linked defender

The 24-year-old has been the subject of much transfer speculation throughout this summer amid interest from a host of top European clubs.

A recent report claims that Manchester United have made a bid to sign Kadioglu after holding talks with the player's representatives.

The Red Devils are on the lookout for a new left-back as both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have been hampered with injuries.

Arsenal ad Borussia Dortmund have also been credited with an interest in Kadioglu, but Brighton now appear to have won the race for his signature.

Kadioglu set to join Brighton despite Man United, Arsenal interest

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Brighton have agreed a £30m (£25.4m) package with Fenerbahce to sign Kadioglu, who will undergo medical tests this weekend.

Romano adds that Kadioglu agreed personal terms on a five-year contract a fortnight ago, and has been persuaded by the Brighton project to make the move to the Amex Stadium.

The Turkey international is attracted by the opportunity of playing in the Premier League and is ready to leave Fenerbahce, who appointed Jose Mourinho as their new head coach in June.

Brighton have stepped up their interest in Kadioglu after allowing Valentin Barco to join Sevilla on a season-long loan deal that does not include an option to buy.

Kadioglu has represented Turkey 20 times at international level and was a standout performer for his country at Euro 2024 as they surprised many by reaching the quarter-finals.

The right-footed defender, who can operate at left-back or right-back, was born in the Netherlands and began his career with NEC Nijmegen before joining Fenerbahce in 2018.

Kadioglu, who won the Turkish Cup in 2022-23, has contributed with 18 goals and 22 assists in 204 appearances for Fenerbahce across all competitions, chipping in with three goals and five assists in 51 games last season.

Should Kadioglu finalise his move to Brighton, he will presumably compete with Pervis Estupinan when he recovers from injury, while he could also provide competition for Joel Veltman at right-back.

Jack Hinshelwood is another player at Fabian Hurzeler's disposal who can operate as either a left-back or right-back, while Tariq Lamptey has recently been linked with a move away from the club.