Report: Martin Odegaard remains top summer target for Arsenal

Add as preferred source on Google

Football London claim that Martin Odegaard is still the top priority during the summer transfer window for Premier League outfit Arsenal.

The 28-cap youngster has done a decent job since arriving on loan in January from Real Madrid.

Mikel Arteta will hope to try and prise him to the Emirates Stadium permanently during the summer once his loan deal expires.

The Norwegian hasn’t been in favour under Zinedine Zidane and Arsenal want to start discussions over a transfer.

It’s unsure at this stage, however, whether or not Los Blancos would actually consider a sale.

Another loan is likely to be appealing to Arsenal but Arteta hopes to have him in his ranks one way or another.

Odegaard has played 14 times for the Gunners in all competitions, scoring twice during his temporary switch to North London.

With Champions League football in the balance, Arsenal might have to cut their cloth accordingly.

Arteta will only see his team enter European football’s elite club competition if they win the Europa League.

To reach the final they must overcome Unai Emery with the Gunners set to face his Villarreal side in the first leg of their semi-final this evening.

Odegaard will hope to be among the squad and continue his good form to give Arsenal an advantage ahead of their second leg.

TBR View: Odegaard capture won’t be easy

The fact Arsenal want to re-sign him in the summer will come as music to the ears of supporters – although pulling it off won’t come easily.

Odegaard earns £85,000-a-week at Real Madrid who are likely to command a substantial transfer fee for the 22-year-old.

The two-time Champions League winner would be a fantastic signing though. Even if Arsenal could secure another loan deal it would be deemed a real coup for the club.

Other clubs will become alerted to his availability, however, and Arsenal could already be facing a losing battle.

With that in mind, the club must ensure contingency plans are made accordingly.