Martin Keown thinks Arsenal Odegaard arrival could be bad news for Dani Ceballos

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Arsenal legend, Martin Keown, thinks that Dani Ceballos could be in trouble if the Gunners complete the signing of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid.

Speaking to Talksport yesterday, Keown was pleased to see his former club making moves in the market. Odegaard is expected to sign in the coming days, bringing an end to Mikel Arteta’s search for a creative midfielder.

However, the former Gunners defender questioned what Odegaard’s arrival could mean for Ceballos, who is also on loan from Madrid.

“I’m assuming Arsenal are all over it. (Odegaard) brings that quality into the midfield. It’s an area Arsenal need to strengthen,” Keown said.

“Does that mean Ceballos will go? He’s on loan as well. Is he going to get football? Real Madrid may be concerned, he hasn’t played that much so far.”

Ceballos has remained an integral part of the squad under Mikel Arteta but didn’t feature in the 3-0 win over Newcastle and has started just 10 of 18 Premier League games this term.

Odegaard’s arrival, however, is more likely to impact things further up the pitch. At Sociedad, he played from wide forward areas in the main, so is more likely to be competing with the likes of Smith-Rowe and Saka in that sense.

TBR View: Ceballos still a valuable player for Arsenal

Keown’s concern is valid here but Mikel Arteta will still see value in having Ceballos in his midfield. Even as a squad member, it’s important Ceballos remains on the ball for when the Gunners need him.

The Spaniard plays deeper than Odegaard, too. On that front, it shouldn’t mean the two players impacting each other that much.

Ceballos still has a key role to play this season and if anything, he might help Odegaard settle into Arsenal life that bit quicker.