Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is now closing in on a new long-term contract at the club, in a major boost for Mikel Arteta.
The 24-year-old has been phenomenal for Arsenal since taking the armband at the start of last season, becoming a huge goal threat and leading by example on and off the pitch.
Odegaard has developed into one of Europe’s finest midfielders since joining Mikel Arteta’s side, and is now set to follow other top stars Bukayo Saka and William Saliba in committing their futures to the club.
Fabrizio Romano has now revealed in his Daily Briefing that an agreement with the Norweigan is on the verge of completion, and the midfielder has no intention of leaving the club any time soon.
Why Pele Is Overrated.
“Let’s start with the big news that will certainly please Arsenal fans, and that’s that Martin Odegaard is very close to extending his contract with the Gunners. Negotiations are going very well, and he wants to stay,” Romano claimed.
“I’m unable to give a clearer timeframe for the moment, but will of course update you when I can. As reported before, though, Odegaard is very happy at Arsenal and they are very happy with him, so it seems like only a matter of time.
MORE ARSENAL STORIES
“If or when Arsenal get this done, it follows other important deals in recent months for Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli as the Arsenal board work to secure the club’s future.”
Arteta’s perfect captain
There was some surprise when Odegaard was handed the captain’s armband following the departure of Alexandre Lacazette, but he has taken to the role superbly after a difficult few years for the club.
Odegaard had doubters when he made his loan move permanent, but has silenced them in the best way possible, developing into both an elite goalscorer and a crucial playmaker for Arteta’s side.
He is almost undroppable, and his form in front of goal seems to be constantly improving, with his strike against Manchester United a fine example of his usefulness in the final third.
He has delivered goals and assists in crucial moments, and is now one of the most important players at the club. Tieing him down long-term is another huge boost, and it highlights how well the project which has focused on younger players in the last few seasons, is now paying off.