ARSENAL will try to keep Martin Odegaard at the Emirates next season, according to reports.
Mikel Arteta has been delighted by the Norwegian’s impact since arriving on loan from Real Madrid in January and will reportedly try to extend the deal or sign him permanently.
The 22-year-old capped a near perfect week when he scored in the Gunners’ 2-1 North London derby win over Tottenham on Sunday – his first Premier League goal for the club.
He bagged his first ever Arsenal goal in Thursday’s 3-1 Europa League win at Olympiakos.
And he was named captain of Norway.
The midfielder has had such an impact since his arrival, the North Londoners plan to enter transfer talks with Real Madrid at the end of the season in order to help keep him on board, according to the Mail.
Whether the move is financially feasible remains to be seen with the Gunners struggling to qualify for Europe.
But with Real lining up mega-money moves for Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland, Los Blancos are open to letting Odegaard leave.
The attacking midfielder has settled into life at Arsenal quickly and hinted recently he was keen to stay in London beyond the end of this season.
Odegaard told BT Sport: “I have felt at home since the first day, I am happy to be here and I feel great so I’m very pleased to be a part of the team.”
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He also revealed the goal against Tottenham was the stuff of dreams.
Odegaard told the club website: “It was a dream come true today and also it was a big win in the derby so I’m really happy for the team.
“This was for our fans and I hope they are happy with us today.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
