Liverpool have been handed a boost in the pursuit of on-loan Arsenal star Martin Odegaard, who is reportedly open to joining the Reds.
According to a report by Spanish publication AS, Martin Odegaard has no qualms about making a permanent transfer to Liverpool in the summer transfer window. The Norwegian midfielder, who is currently on loan at Arsenal from Real Madrid, is also a target for the Gunners over a move in the upcoming window.
Odegaard joined Real Madrid from Stromsgodset in January 2015, arriving at the club amid a lot of hype and fanfare surrounding his talent. Till date, though, the 22-year-old is yet to establish himself as a regular for Los Blancos, who have instead hauled him out on loan four different times.
It is at Real Sociedad where he particularly impressed last season and it was mooted that the young playmaker could be set to make it big at Real Madrid this term. However, after failing to nail down a spot in Zinedine Zidane’s side, the Norwegian international was sent to Arsenal for the second half of the season.
At the Emirates, Odegaard has settled down well after being eased in by Mikel Arteta, with the 22-year-old now a mainstay for the Gunners. Till date, Odegaard has made 13 appearances for Arsenal, with two goals to show for his efforts. And, the north Londoners are eager to not let the player leave for good in the summer.
Indeed, widespread reports have suggested that Arsenal want to sign Odegaard permanently in the summer, and for good reason, with the club in search of a long-term replacement for Mesut Ozil. However, Arsenal are reportedly facing stiff competition from Liverpool, with AS also suggesting that Jurgen Klopp is a keen admirer of his talents.
In fact, Klopp recently greeted Odegaard gleefully following Liverpool’s meeting with Arsenal in the Premier League. The report adds that the youngster has been on the Reds’ radar for some time now and that they could be set to make a move for him. And, Liverpool have now been handed a boost in his pursuit as well.
The report claims that Odegaard would not be averse to the idea of joining Liverpool instead of Arsenal, who could have difficulties in signing him due to his hefty price tag. While he wishes to remain at Real Madrid, he will seek a permanent transfer to the Premier League if he cannot nail down his spot in Zidane’s side, which could well give Liverpool the advantage in the race to sign him.