Arsenal has added a much-needed reinforcement to their squad ahead of the transfer window deadline in just a couple of weeks. The Gunners and Martin Odegaard have agreed on a five-year contract for around €40 million as he permanently leaves Real Madrid, per Fabrizio Romano:
Martin Ødegaard to Arsenal, here we go and deal confirmed! Permanent move – bit less than €40m to Real Madrid. Personal terms already agreed on five years contract. 🇳🇴 #AFC
Edu and Arteta wanted Ødegaard as only priority since June, strategy was correct… and now, done deal. pic.twitter.com/2LCaiEiKD0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 18, 2021
This is a great move for both sides. Arsenal needs more firepower in the final third and Odegaard was clearly not in Carlo Ancelotti's plans at the Bernabeu this season. The Norwegian was very impressive in his loan spell at the Emirates in 2020/21, showcasing his ability to pick out a decisive pass and be a key figure in the attack. While he scored just two goals and supplied two assists with Mikel Arteta's side, Odegaard showed promise.
Arsenal got off to another disappointing start to begin the Premier League campaign as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to newly-promoted Brentford last Friday. They looked toothless in the final third and frankly, need all the help possible in order to try and secure a top-six finish this term.
As Romano noted, Odegaard was the Gunners' primary target all summer. Initially, it did seem as he would stay in Spain, but Madrid clearly changed their stance on his situation and was ultimately open to selling the player. At just 22-years-old, Odegaard's best days of football are still ahead of them and he should be a key piece of this Arsenal squad for years to come.
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