Norwich City accept this summer is the right time for Emi Buendia to move on, with Arsenal circling for the 24-year-old playmaker.

David Ornstein writes for The Athletic that both Emi Buendia and Norwich City understand that it’s time for him to take the next step in his career, and expect him to depart in the upcoming market.

Arsenal, Aston Villa, and a major European side are all believed to be in the race for him. Norwich want upwards of £40m for the transfer, and they want to get it done before the start of next season, but they’re in no real rush.

Edu and Mikel Arteta reportedly think highly of Buendia, though the suggestion in Ornstein’s article is that Martin Odegaard remains the club’s first-choice pick.

Last week, Sky Sports reported that Arsenal and Aston Villa had renewed long-standing interest in Buendia ahead of the summer window. They claimed Buendia would cost in the region of £35m to £40m.

James Benge added that Arsenal were preparing a bid for Buendia after a lengthy pursuit of the Norwich man. They’re poised to make their opening offer and the player himself would be “extremely interested” in the move.

Goal first reported earlier this week that Arsenal were pursuing Buendia. According to their report, club technical director Edu is keen on the player, Arsenal are long-term admirers, and Buendia is keen on the move to North London.

Buendia scored 15 goals for the campaign as Norwich achieved promotion to the Premier League this season. On top of that, he provided 16 assists and won the Championship Player of the Season award.