Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly ready to join Arsenal in pursuit of Real Madrid playmaker Martin Odegaard, valued at around €50 million.
A recent report from Fichajes has offered an interesting insight into Martin Odegaard’s transfer saga at Real Madrid. The young playmaker is among the players likely to exit Santiago Bernabeu, with the Spanish giants valuing him at around €50 million.
Arsenal are believed to be the front-runners in the race to sign Odegaard, who spent the second half of the 2020/21 campaign on loan at the Emirates. But, it appears the Gunners are set to face fresh competition from league rivals Chelsea and Liverpool, who are apparently fascinated by the idea of signing the talented number ten.
Liverpool, in particular, are believed to be in awe of Odegaard, thanks to his successful little stint at Arsenal. Arriving in England in the January transfer window, the Norwegian settled in rather quickly, mustering 14 league appearances.
Although his tally of one goal and two assists are not particularly eye-catching, his overall contributions were far greater. Unfortunately, Odegaard’s progress at Arsenal was halted by a few fitness problems during the final couple of months. But that has not deterred Liverpool from eyeing a shock summer swoop.
The Real Madrid starlet could indeed be an interesting, more in-form alternative for Saul Niguez. The Reds have been recently linked with a €50 million move for the Atletico Madrid star, but Odegaard represents better long-term value, whereas Saul has endured a steady decline over the past couple of years.
Chelsea, too, could be a fascinating destination for Odegaard as he can directly replace Hakim Ziyech. The former Ajax playmaker has been linked with an exit after struggling to adapt to life under Thomas Tuchel.
However, it is Arsenal who are in pole position to secure the services of the Real Madrid playmaker. The player is already quite familiar with Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup. Arsenal can also guarantee him regular game-time, as they look to create a new core in the attacking department next season.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal’s lack of participation in European football makes north London an unappealing destination for Odegaard. But the Norwegian international certainly has what it takes to become an ideal long-term successor for Mesut Ozil at Emirates.