Mikel Arteta comments on Martin Odegaard after Arsenal beat Southampton

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Mikel Arteta has told his post-match press conference following a 3-1 win over Southampton – as per Football London – that Arsenal are close to completing a deal for Martin Odegaard, but the move is not yet “finalised”.

Odegaard, 22, has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal as his game time at Real Madrid is lacking. He has managed just five minutes of senior football in La Liga since the end of November, and a loan is forthcoming.

The playmaker has even been given the “Here We Go” treatment from Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Confirmation of a loan without a permanent clause was expected on Tuesday, but nothing has been announced.

Following a win over Southampton, in which Nicolas Pepe, Bukayo Saka and Alexandre Lacazette all scored – Arteta gave an update on Odegaard, stating that they are confident of a deal but nothing is finalised as of yet.

“I think we are pretty close but it’s not finalised it as I understand it. I haven’t spoken to Edu or the club in the last few hours but we’re very positive that we’ll finalise the deal,” Arteta said.

TBR’s view – A good signing, but Arsenal must be careful

Once again, Emile Smith-Rowe impressed on Tuesday night. He has been excellent for The Gunners, laying on plenty of assists and even scoring the winner in an FA Cup win over Newcastle. He has starred in the 10 role.

Arsenal’s return to form coincided with the England star’s introduction into the starting line-up. His development and maximising his potential hinges on how much game time he gets in this crucial period of his career.

Arteta must be careful to use Smith-Rowe as much as he can – and not allow Odegaard to get in the way of his development.