Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard has provided an update on his contract situation at the North London club amidst interest from Bayern Munich.
Martin Odegaard has admitted that discussions over a new contract at Arsenal are yet to begin. Speaking while on international duty with Norway, the Norwegian midfielder told GOAL:
“I’m happy and hope I can stay there for a long time to come, but we haven’t started on that yet.”
His comments will offer some encouragement to Arsenal supporters, although the absence of formal negotiations means the club still have work to do.
The 27-year-old has 18 months remaining on his current deal, putting Arsenal under pressure to secure an extension before he enters the final year of his contract next summer. However, Bayern Munich are monitoring the situation and have maintained contact with the midfielder’s representatives.
The Bundesliga giants are understood to view him as an option as they assess their midfield requirements, particularly given uncertainty around their attacking midfield depth. Given Jamal Musiala’s medical condition, investing in a top-class attacking midfielder could become very important for them.
Odegaard’s creativity and experience could make him an attractive option, although his latest comments suggest that remaining at Arsenal is his preferred outcome.
Odegaard is among Arteta’s most reliable weapons
The Gunners will be reluctant to lose a player who has become central to their progress under Mikel Arteta. Odegaard joined the club from Real Madrid in the summer of 2021 for £30 million and has since made 251 appearances, contributing towards 94 goals.
Although his performances were somewhat inconsistent last season, the Norwegian is showing signs of returning to his best. He has scored five goals and provided one assist in 17 appearances across competitions this term, accumulating close to 1,200 minutes.
Odegaard demonstrated his importance in Arsenal’s final outing before the November international break, scoring the decisive goal in their hard-fought victory over Hull City, helping the North London side move five points clear at the top of the Premier League table, as they look to defend the title.
The Gunners are enjoying another strong campaign as they look to win back-to-back titles. With Odegaard gradually rediscovering his best form, Arteta’s team will have little reason to entertain his departure. The club are likely to prioritise extending his contract, particularly given his influence on the team.
Bayern’s interest could complicate matters if negotiations fail to progress, but Odegaard’s latest comments provide a positive indication of his intentions. For now, the midfielder appears keen to continue his journey in North London, even though formal talks over fresh terms are yet to begin.
