Arsenal have been handed what might doubtlessly be a last blow of their pursuit of Martin Odegaard.
The Norwegian spent final season on mortgage on the Emirates Stadium and impressed Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta sufficient for the Gunners to pursue an prolonged deal.
soccer.london understands that one among Arsenal’s priorities is to signal a inventive midfielder within the switch window, whereas the early hope was that Odegaard might properly be that man.
Up to now, progress has not been made on any deal to see him return to north London, as an alternative, Odegaard has been taking part in a full half in Actual Madrid’s preparations for the 2021/22 marketing campaign having netted on his first look again in Spain.
Video Unavailable
Now, reviews have instructed that the Norwegian is ready to be handed a extra distinguished position within the Los Blancos set-up, doubtlessly placing paid to any hopes Arsenal had on securing his signature on a everlasting foundation.
Based on Spanish outlet AS, new Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti sees Odegaard as a brand new signing.
It is usually revealed that the 2 held talks following the Italian’s return to the membership, the place the Norwegian was assured that he could be afforded extra minutes with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos doubtlessly needing rather more back-up subsequent season of their advancing years.
Even only a slight inclusion would see Odegaard handed extra alternatives in comparison with his time below Ancelotti’s predecessor, Zinedine Zidane.
The 22-year-old made simply 10 appearances below the Frenchman, the overwhelming majority of these coming through the 2020/21 marketing campaign. Simply three of these have been begins, nevertheless, earlier than Odegaard joined Arsenal on mortgage for the remainder of the season.
He made 20 appearances in all competitions throughout his spell in north London, netting twice. Mikel Arteta had beforehand admitted that the Gunners could be making an attempt to convey Odegaard again for a second spell.
Talking in Could, the Spaniard mentioned: “We’ve a really clear and powerful opinion on what we want to do.
“He isn’t our participant. We may have discussions within the subsequent few weeks. And respect to start with as a result of he’s a Actual Madrid participant, and we may have these communications.”
Would you like an unique pre-season Arsenal preview – each in your inbox and thru your letterbox? Head over right here to search out out extra and safe your copy!