Arteta offers update on Arsenal's future plans for Odegaard

The Gunners boss has dropped a transfer hint on Real Madrid loanee Odegaard’s future at the Emirates Stadium.

Mikel Arteta has hinted Martin Odegaard could extend his stay at Arsenal beyond the end of the season in a potential permanent transfer.

The 22-year-old midfielder joined Arsenal on a short-term loan deal in January after struggling for regular opportunities at Real Madrid. He’s made a decent start in London and shown flashes of promise.

His early impact has already left Arteta suitably impressed, with the Arsenal manager having recently backed him to become one of the world’s best players.

So, with a coach that rates him highly and promises regular football, could Odegaard try to fulfil his potential at Arsenal?

Arteta on Odegaard: "We have Martin for a few months & first of all we have to maximise this time with him to try to bring to the team all the qualities he has. At the end of the season we will sit together & decide where we can take that relationship forward" #Arsenal pic.twitter.com/Qrrygp8DWq

— Gurjit (@GurjitAFC) February 20, 2021

“We have Martin for a few months from Real Madrid and first of all we have to maximize this time with him to try to bring to the team all the qualities he has,” said Arteta as quoted on BT Sport.

“At the end of the season, we will sit together and decide where we can take that relationship forward. At the moment it doesn’t just depend on us.”

Odegaard has stated in previous interviews that he is enjoying his time at Arsenal and hasn’t ruled out extending his stay. However, as Arteta pointed out, Real Madrid will also factor into any final decision.

As things stand, the Spanish giants have the final say on Odegaard’s future but could be tempted into a sale if they wish to make any big-money summer signings.