Why Martin Odegaard could be a top signing for Arsenal

According to a report from the Sun, Arsenal are lining up a move for Real Madrid ace Martin Odegaard as a replacement for Mesut Ozil.

Martin Odegaard, 20, is currently plying his trade on loan at Real Sociedad, with the Norwegian impressing fans and critics alike with his consistently brilliant performances for the Basque side. He has been in terrific form, scoring twice and assisting once in just six appearances to be named Player of the Month.

And Arsenal are now said to be looking at bringing the 20-year-old to the Emirates, but face competition from Manchester City, who are tracking him as a possible replacement for David Silva, the report adds.

Martin Odegaard could be available for transfer after failing to make the grade for Real Madrid. However, it is noted the Spanish giants want at least £71m if they’re to let the player leave. That being said, should Arsenal spend big to sign the Norwegian?

Mesut Ozil has started just one of Arsenal’s seven Premier League matches so far and looks set for another season on the fringes. Ozil, who is the club’s highest earner, has been a shadow of his former self this season.

The 30-year-old was once considered to be one of the top players in the Premier League and arguably all of Europe, but he is finding it difficult to break into Emery’s starting XI.

Dani Ceballos is the preferred No. 10 for the Gunners right now. But the Spaniard is on loan from Real Madrid and there is every chance Zinedine Zidane will want him back at the Santiago Bernabeu.

With Ceballos likely to return Madrid after his loan spell and Ozil out of favour under Emery, it makes sense for Arsenal to offload Ozil and replace him with Odegaard.

The Gunners boast an exciting attack and Odegaard would add an extra edge to their front line, as well as some much-needed creativity. The Norway international is a real threat with the ball at his feet and whilst running at defenders, something that could help the Gunners in breaching the most stubborn of defences.

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At Sociedad, the 20-year-old has played in a deeper position and impressed with his ability by starting attacks and opening defences at will. All in all, the Scandinavian wonder-kid could be the perfect fit at Arsenal and a potential long-term replacement for Ozil.

Verdict

Odegaard doesn’t appear to be in Zinedine Zidane’s plans at Madrid which gives Arsenal an opportunity to step in. Thus, the north London giants must go all out to land the Norwegian in the summer of 2020.