The Athletic are reporting that Arsenal will miss out on the signing of Martin Odegaard.
What’s the story?
Odegaard spent the second half of the past season on loan at Arsenal from Real Madrid.
Arsenal manger Mikel Arteta wants to bring the Norway international attacking midfielder back to the Emirates Stadium.
In fact, the 22-year-old is claimed to be the Gunners’ number one target.
However, sources are now indicating that Odegaard – described by former Liverpool midfielder Don Hutchison as “just incredible” on ESPN in March – will stay at Madrid for the 2021-22 campaign.
This means that Arsenal will now have to look at another number 10.
Blow for Arsenal
As reported by The Athletic in the same report, Arsenal wanted to sign Emiliano Buendia from Norwich City.
However, the Argentine playmaker moved to Aston Villa instead.
Odegaard did well for the Gunners during his loan spell.
The 22-year-old made nine starts and five substitute appearances in the Premier League for Arsenal.
The youngster scored one goal and gave two assists in those games.
Odegaard also scored one goal in six Europa League matches for the Gunners.
Real Madrid stay
Carlo Ancelotti is the new manager of Madrid now, and the Italian could decide to give Odegaard a chance.
Madrid are Odegaard’s parent club, and it would make sense for the Norwegian to at least try one more time to establish himself in the first team.
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