Andy Cole says Arsenal will struggle to sign 22-year-old in the summer

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Andy Cole has told TalkSPORT that he thinks Arsenal will fail in any attempts to complete a permanent deal for Martin Odegaard this summer, after the Norwegian scored in Sunday’s 2-1 win over North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Odegaard, 22, has been in excellent form of the Gunners since moving to the capital on loan from Real Madrid in the summer. He has enjoyed an excellent week, scoring two goals in as many games – the first coming against Olympiacos in the Europa League.

The second came via a deflection off of Toby Alderweireld on Sunday, as Arsenal came from behind to beat Spurs. His excellent form has seen fans call for a permanent deal to be secured for his services – but the loan does not include such an option.

The danger is, that as he continues to shine, his price tag will only increase. Spanish reports state that Arsenal may have to spend a whopping £69million to get their man – and Cole would be surprised if Real Madrid left him leave.

“Odegaard is a baller. He’s technically very, very gifted,” Cole said. “There’s talk of Arsenal trying to bring him to the Emirates [on a permanent deal] in the summer. I would be surprised [if Madrid let him go]. The Arsenal fans love Odegaard.”

TBR’s view – Odegaard would be a top signing

But at what value does Odegaard become too much? He has clearly taken to life in North London and signing Odegaard in the summer brings with it the knowledge that he has already adapted to the Premier League – and to Arsenal as a club itself.

Reports of £69million being requested is certainly very expensive. He is a top player with plenty of time left in his career, but he is certainly not worth that figure. If Arsenal can arrange a fee below £50million, they will be getting a good deal.