Arsenal are growing optimistic over the signing of Martin Odegaard, with talks ongoing over the deal’s structure.

Martin Odegaard of Norway during the UEFA Nations League football match between Norway and Northern Ireland on October 14, 2020 in Oslo. Photo: Vegard Wivestad Grott / BILDBYRAN
Martin Odegaard of Norway during the UEFA Nations League football match between Norway and Northern Ireland on October 14, 2020 in Oslo. Photo: Vegard Wivestad Grott / BILDBYRAN

Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth reports that Arsenal are ‘cautiously’ optimistic that they can complete the transfer of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid.

Talks are ongoing, particularly with regards to the structure of the deal. As we’ve covered previously, there’s been talk of a loan, a loan with an option, and a permanent deal at various different fees, so there’s no real clarity over exactly how the young playmaker may end up returning.

The key thing is that it’s starting to look more likely to go through in one way or another.

Sheth also mentions that Odegaard’s Real Madrid shirt number has already been given away to Rodrygo. At the time of writing, Odegaard still hasn’t been officially assigned a shirt number, despite the season getting underway.

Combine that with the fact that Odegaard was left out of Real Madrid’s opening game in La Liga, and they certainly aren’t making much of an effort to appear as if they’re trying to keep him.

Recent reports suggested Odegaard’s representatives were expected to fly into London on Sunday to sort an agreement for his return to Arsenal. The player wants a deal in place by Friday, so we’ll hopefully see some quick progress this week.