Report: Arsenal handed blow in quest to sign Martin Odegaard

Arsenal have been handed a blow in their pursuit of Martin Odegaard, with The Athletic claiming that Real Madrid are set to keep the Norwegian.

It is claimed that new boss Carlo Ancelotti wants to keep the 22-year-old at the Bernabeu for the 2021/22 campaign.

Arsenal’s transfer priority this summer was to secure a return for the youngster. He spent the second half of last season on loan with the Gunners.

Real Madrid didn’t want Odegaard to leave the club during January. The player held a desire to go to Arsenal though and his wishes were granted.

Now, it seems as though a deal this summer would only be likely if the Norway captain pushed for it once again.

Talks are planned with Ancelotti though and he could tempt him into sticking with Los Blancos for next season.

As things currently stand though, he is considered part of Madrid’s plans for 2021/22.

That means that Arsenal may have to go back to the drawing board as they search for a No.10.

Odegaard played 20 games for the Gunners last season, scoring twice and claiming two assists.

His defining moment came when he scored in a 2-1 win over Tottenham and he was largely impressive.

The £85,000-a-week player appeared to enjoy playing for the Gunners and a return to North London seemed on the cards.

Odegaard to Arsenal: Blow for the Gunners

The Norwegian could have registered more goal contributions but his time at Arsenal shouldn’t just be judged on that.

It’s always difficult to enter a new country and a new style of football half way through a campaign.

With a full pre-season under his belt in England, Odegaard could have thrived and this does provide the Gunners with a big blow.

It seems likely that the playmaker will jump at the chance to reignite his Real Madrid career – although he’ll want regular game time.

Arsenal have Emile Smith Rowe who can play as a No.10 but Arteta will want another option to come into the club this summer.

The Gunners can’t afford to wait long on Odegaard and a quick resolution is necessary.

This news does provide an early transfer blow for Arsenal – but Arteta can’t afford to dwell on it for too long.