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Arsenal close to ‘agreeing permanent transfer’ for Martin Odegaard and Real Madrid star could be ready to face Chelsea


ARSENAL are reportedly closing in on the £30million transfer of Real Madrid midfielder Martin Odegaard.

And although there is still some work to do, the Gunners are hoping the 22-year-old could even feature against Chelsea on Sunday.

Martin Odegaard looks set for a return to Arsenal this season – and could even play against Chelsea at the weekendCredit: Rex

Odegaard spent last season on loan at the Emirates and put in some impressive performances.

But it appeared that hadn’t done enough for Arsenal to push for a permanent deal, and the Norwegian returned to Real Madrid.

But now, according to The Athletic, the Londoners ‘are close to agreeing a deal with Real Madrid’.

Odegaard did not train with his Real Madrid team-mates on Tuesday as he hopes to thrash out his future.

The midfielder scored two goals in 20 appearances under Gunners boss Mikel Arteta last season.

Arsenal were dealt a blow when it looked like Madrid were set to keep hold of him as cover for the injured Toni Kroos.

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However that stance has changed after the German’s groin injury with reports suggesting Madrid are ‘eager’ to sell Odegaard.

Arsenal can fund the deal after they sold Joe Willock to Newcastle for £25m.

The Mirror claimed that Odegaard’s agent also landed in London on Tuesday.

The Dane still has two years left on his Real contract.

But he has been left without a squad number as his number 21 shirt has been handed to Rodrygo.

⚽ Read our Arsenal live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from The Emirates

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