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Tim Sherwood has told Optus Sport’s The Analysis Show that he believes Arsenal can complete the permanent signing of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid in the summer – but only on one condition, and it is a big one.
Odegaard, 22, produced another excellent performance on Sunday afternoon as Arsenal came back from a dismal start to draw 3-3 with London rivals West Ham away from home. It was a brilliant comeback, but qualification for Europe is slipping away.
Since joining the club, Odegaard has scored two goals for the Gunners in 12 appearances – netting in the North London derby, though deflected and in the Europa League. But he has given Arsenal a bit of Mesut Ozil-like vision, which they were lacking.
It remains to be seen how much Arsenal will have to spend to get Odegaard permanently, but there is no permanent clause in his loan. Sherwood says they need Champions League football to tempt him – and will therefore, have to win the Europa League.
“I think they would love to sign him if they possibly could. I would definitely sign him. I think Odegaard might only come to Arsenal if they finish in the Champions League, which means they need to win the Europa League,” Sherwood said.
TBR’s view – What represents a good deal for Arsenal in terms of price?
Odegaard is clearly a top player and even though he is only a couple of months into his time in both England and at Arsenal, he has taken to it very quickly – especially given it is the middle of the season. He has enormous quality in attacking midfield.
Out wide of in the 10, he is a threat – with shooting from distance or slipping his teammates in. He is the Ozil replacement Arsenal have been looking for, but works harder. If the Gunners can get a deal done for Odegaard, then they really need to.
Realistically, Real do not need to sell. He is still young and is contracted until 2023. If Real are willing to get a deal done in the region of £50million, then Arsenal really need to consider spending big on the young star. He is only going to get better.
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