Real Madrid playmaker Martin Odegaard has enjoyed a lovely start at Arsenal. The Norwegian playmaker was brought to the Emirates Stadium to help the creativity problem, with the 22-year-old impressing in his first two starts for the north London giants.
The Blancos loanee was influential in the 4-2 win over Leeds last weekend and was one of a few standout performers in the 1-1 draw with Benfica in the UEFA Europa League. As a result, speculation emerged that Edu, the Gunners' technical director, will look to secure Odegaard's services for the upcoming 2021/22 campaign, be it through another loan or a permanent deal.
However, the Premier League outfit look to have suffered a huge blow in this aspect. According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid do not wish to let the playmaker go as the plan on using him as a bargaining tool in their pursuit of Erling Braut Haaland.
It is no secret that Florentino Perez wishes to bring the Dortmund striker to the Santiago Bernabeu. The reason is obvious: with 28 goals in 31 appearances for the Bundesliga outfit, he is the hottest striker in world football.
Given his goalscoring record and age, he is one of the most sought-after strikers, meaning Real Madrid aren't the only ones keen on landing the former RB Salzburg sensation. Here is where Odegaard fits into the equation.
Being a fellow Norwegian, Haaland is said to boast a close relationship with Martin. As a result, the prospect of teaming up with his good mate in the Spanish capital would undoubtedly hand Los Merengues a huge advantage over the attacker's other suitors.
If so, Arteta's side could be forced to search for another no. 10. English youngster Emile Smith Rowe has impressed at the Emirates Stadium and has played a huge role in the club's upturn in fortunes, but an experienced creative midfielder with a better injury track record will be needed.
