Arsenal

Arsenal: Robbie Mustoe believes Gunners will look to sign Martin Odegaard permanently

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Image for Arsenal: Robbie Mustoe believes Gunners will look to sign Martin Odegaard permanently

On the latest instalment of The 2 Robbies podcast, Robbie Mustoe has been discussing Martin Odegaard’s future at Arsenal after impressing over the weekend. 

The Real Madrid loanee joined Mikel Arteta’s men on a short-term loan deal in January and has performed well for the Gunners in recent weeks.

A stunning goal in the Europa League against Greek giants Olympiacos was followed up by a smart finish in the North London derby and a dazzling second-half display in the dramatic fightback against West Ham on Sunday topped off a good few days for the Norway international.

Although there is no reported option for the Emirates Stadium outfit to make Odegaard’s move a permanent one, Mustoe believes the capital club will push to sign the 22-year-old on a long-term deal over the summer.

He said: “I like seeing talented players that potentially have got a huge upside. And I couldn’t agree more. I think he’s an upgrade on Emile Smith Rowe in the number 10 position. I’d say that straight away. I do.

“He’s got that left foot, hasn’t he? He’s got that left foot, it looks good, and he looks like a craftsman. I think there’s a work element to him as well. I think he isn’t afraid to run back a few times and help out.

“I think he’ll grow, I think you’re seeing growth in him. I think he’ll continue to grow and, and like we said about Jesse Lingard, feel like an important part of the team. And ‘give it me even more because I can make things happen’ because of his ability and his shooting abilities with his left foot, he helped to get a goal today didn’t he, the ball out wide to go back in again.

“So, I think it’s a great shout, and I think Arsenal fans will really start to appreciate him as I’m sure his manager is as well. I mean, I would think they’ll try and make this a permanent deal.”

TIF Thoughts on Odegaard…

Odegaard has adapted to life in the Premier League well during his time on English shores, bagging two goals in 12 games for the Gunners, who haven’t always performed at their best, making life trickier for the Scandinavian talent.

His contract with parent club Madrid doesn’t expire until 2023, meaning the reigning Spanish champions could still demand a significant fee for £36m-rated midfielder (as per Transfermarkt).

Whether Arsenal could afford the asking price for Odegaard is unknown, although it’s unlikely Arteta would have sufficient funds unless he sold some of his first-team squad.

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