Report: Arsenal lead race for ‘incredible’ transfer-listed ace after £42m bid, but there’s a catch

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Arsenal are the main contenders to sign Martin Odegaard this summer after Real Madrid placed the Norwegian playmaker on their transfer list, according to Defensa Central.

The Galacticos have warmed to selling their midfield maestro before the market slams shut on August 31, having ruled out another loan. Odegaard spent the second half of last season on loan at Arsenal, having failed to establish a role at Real Madrid under Zinedine Zidane.

Arsenal have already moved to facilitate Odegaard’s permanent Emirates Stadium return by offering Real Madrid €50m (£42m). But Los Blancos President Florentino Perez rejected the sum, insisting that the 22-year-old is worth at least €60m-70m (£51m-59m).

Perez is loath to sell Odegaard at any price as Real Madrid want to build a youthful future. The Galacticos are committed to reducing the average age of their squad, and believed Odegaard had a role to play.

But Carlo Ancelotti prefers the likes of Isco to Odegaard as he feels the Spaniard is more prepared. So, Real Madrid are willing to sell the latter for the right price, but are currently unconvinced by Arsenal’s offer.

Mikel Arteta is desperate to see Odegaard return to north London after his half-season spell on loan at the club. Mundo Deportivo report the Spaniard has once again urged the Gunners to secure his transfer, as he seeks more creativity.

Arsenal already have a contract ready for Odegaard to sign if he returns permanently from Real Madrid, as well. Defensa Central reported last month the Gunners would pay him €7m-a-year (£114k-p/w), up on his €4.5-5m-a-year (£73k-£81k-p/w) wage.

Should Arteta improve Arsenal’s offer for Real Madrid maestro Odegaard?

Odegaard boosted Arsenal’s pursuit recently when the Norwegian’s agent informed Real Madrid of his unrest in Spain, according to Marca. The 30-cap international does not feel valued under Ancelotti and will not hesitate to leave if he feels unwanted.

Arteta clearly wants Odegaard back at Arsenal, but Real Madrid rejecting their £42m bid could prove very problematic this summer. The Spaniard knows what the Drammen-born star can produce, having labelled him ‘incredible’, via the Gunners’ website in March.

Technical Director Edu must now return with an improved offer if Arsenal can both afford it and want to. Knowing that securing Odegaard’s services will hand Arteta the piece of the puzzle he believes is missing in north London.