By Gareth James
Erol Bulut has admitted he needs to sign another goalkeeper for Cardiff City and that links with Arsenal’s Alex Runarsson could lead to a move.
The Bluebirds boss wants to make more signings before the close of the transfer window, and possibly before this Saturday’s Championship match at Leicester City.
Icelandic international Runarsson is being primed for a loan move and it’s understood that Cardiff is his most likely destination.
The 28-year-old has only made one Premier League appearance for the Gunners, but is known to Bulut from a spell playing in Turkey for Alanyaspor.
“He was at Alanyaspor and he had a good season there,” said Bulut.
“I was at Gaziantep [at the time]. We are looking because we have only two [goalkeepers] and we need three. There are others too we are looking at.”
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As a result of the transfer embargo in place until January, the Bluebirds can only make acquisitions through free transfers or loan deals.
So far this summer, the club have made six signings, but Bulut still believes his squad – who have begun their campaign with a draw at Leeds United and a defeat at home to QPR – requires reinforcements.
The club are also keen to sign Greece midfielder Manolis Siopis, who could arrive on a free transfer after leaving Turkish club Trabzonspor.
Arsenal and Cardiff City have agreed a season-long loan for Alex Rúnarsson.
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— ccfcinsider (@ccfcinsiderr) August 17, 2023
The sticking point, admits Bulut, could be agreeing personal terms.
“I know Manolis Siopis very well because I was the one who brought him to Alanyaspor, then he moved to Trabzonspor where he won the league and cup,” said Bulut.
“Many players are going around as free players but it’s not so easy for us to get those free players because of their wages. It’s normal they get linked to us because they know me and I brought him to Turkey.
“Also, some other players are in the press. Their names are linked with Cardiff. In the future, you never know what can happen.”
One boost for Bulut has been the decision of defender Mark McGuinness to sign a new contract that will tie him to the club until 2027.
McGuinness said: “I’m very pleased. I love this club. I’ve made some good memories and I love living here as well. I’m glad that I’m going to be here for another four years.
“The club itself and the fans are phenomenal. Playing here at Cardiff City Stadium is an honour and we are hopefully heading in a positive direction, so I want to be part of that.
“I think we’ve all got to take the positives that are going on at the club and try and get back to where we should be, whether that be this year or next year, but it’s all looking very good.”
Bulut said: “He’s a really good player, 22 years old, with the potential to play in the Premier League.
“He had many offers, but we are glad to sign him. He’s one of the players we can build around. He has many years ahead of him.”
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