Cardiff City manager Erol Bulut has made it clear that defender Mark McGuinness is not for sale unless a suitable offer matches the club’s valuation. Recent buzz suggested that Luton Town was considering a bid for the former Arsenal prospect to bolster their defense ahead of the upcoming season. McGuinness, a 23-year-old Republic of Ireland U21 international who committed to a four-year contract just a year ago, would command a substantial fee, with Cardiff reportedly pricing him at £10m as they label him a key asset.
Speaking to Wales Online regarding the transfer speculation, Bulut emphasized McGuinness’s quality and potential, noting the interest from other clubs. However, he reiterated that Cardiff will only consider a transfer if their target value is met, underlining McGuinness’s importance by highlighting his contract duration and contribution to the team since his arrival in 2021. Bulut emphasized that until McGuinness leaves, he remains an integral part of the club and discussions about his future will involve the board’s decision-making process.
Luton Town’s manager, Rob Edwards, acknowledged the club’s efforts to reinforce their squad but declined to comment on specific transfer targets like McGuinness. Instead, he reassured that Luton is actively pursuing new signings and aiming to finalize arrivals promptly. The situation reflects a delicate balance as both clubs navigate the complexities of the transfer market and strive to make decisions that align with their respective strategies and goals.
