Mikel Arteta has reportedly informed the Arsenal board he wants to keep Martin Odegaard at the club beyond the end of his loan spell after being impressed by the midfielder’s impact.
The Norwegian star was on target for the Gunners in the North London Derby win over rivals Tottenham on Sunday to follow up his goal against Olympiakos in midweek.
And it seems that has been enough to convince Arteta to try and make the move permanent if a deal can be done.
Odegaard’s loan is due to expire at the end of the season, at which point he is expected to return to Real Madrid.
However, Madrid’s difficult financial situation could tempt them into offloading the 22-year-old to fund new signings of their own.
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Arsenal chiefs are due to hold talks with Real Madrid representatives at the end of the campaign to discuss the prospect of retaining Odegaard’s services.
And according to The Mail , Arteta has urged the Arsenal board to do all they can to strike an agreement, even if that means taking Odegaard on another loan spell next season.
The Gunners’ technical director Edu will now explore the possibility, though Madrid could push for a permanent transfer.
Whether Arsenal could fund a move for the youngster would depend on finances, which could prove difficult given the club posted a loss of almost £50million for last season, with the lack of fans in stadiums still having a big affect on income.
Qualification for the Europa League next season is also imperative to help boost the transfer kitty, though Arsenal could raise some cash by selling the likesof Lucas Torreira.
Arteta raved about Odegaard’s qualities following the 2-1 victory over Spurs.
“He’s got a real stamina and he’s so talented, but his work-rate is incredible,” the Gunners’ boss said. “Not only that, he’s intelligent. The timing of his runs, when he presses, his body shape.
“I’m really impressed and he had an incredible performance today. He’s giving us something different and it’s making us better.”
Another player who could be sold to raise funds is outcast midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, but the Frenchman has opened the door to playing for Arsenal again under Mikel Arteta.
The on-loan star’s time at the Emirates looked to be up after falling out with his boss twice in the space of six months.
But Guendouzi dismissed any suggestion his Arsenal career is over, telling France Football: “No, not at all. Now, I am focused on my season with Hertha Berlin.
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“Next, we will have a sit down with my entourage and people at the club to think and discuss the future. I am still an Arsenal player. This summer will be a decisive moment.”
Asked if it was possible he could work with Arteta again, he replied: “Yes of course. I belong to Arsenal for another year (until June 2022).
“I am here [at Hertha Berlin] to improve. From the moment that I am playing for Arsenal, I will give everything for this club, for the fans, for the team, for the staff.
“I will work hard for the shirt as I have always done.”
