Arsenal Make Final Decision on Martin Odegaard Transfer Amid Real Madrid and Manchester United Links
Martin Odegaard’s Arsenal future has become a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with rumours linking the Norwegian playmaker to Real Madrid and Manchester United.
Despite speculation suggesting the Gunners could cash in for a massive €100m fee, new reports indicate that Arsenal have made a firm decision regarding the future of their captain.
Arsenal’s Stance on Martin Odegaard’s Summer Transfer
Recent transfer reports have sparked debate about whether Arsenal could sell their captain during the upcoming window.
According to Football Transfers, Arsenal have no plans to sell Martin Odegaard this summer, despite growing interest from elite European clubs.
The report dismissed claims about a potential departure as “ludicrous”, reinforcing that the club sees the Norwegian international as a key part of Mikel Arteta’s long-term project.
Sources suggest that unless something dramatic happens before the end of the season, Odegaard will remain at Arsenal beyond the summer transfer window.
Why Transfer Rumours Started
Speculation about Odegaard’s future began after a challenging season disrupted by injuries and competition in midfield.
The 27-year-old has struggled for consistent minutes, starting just 13 Premier League matches and only two Champions League games so far.
Reports earlier this week suggested Manchester United were exploring a shock move, with claims that the midfielder had ‘instructed his agent to open talks with’ the Red Devils.
Another report claimed Arsenal might consider selling if a club offered €100m (£87m), fueling widespread transfer speculation.
However, the latest updates strongly contradict those claims.
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Real Madrid Interest Resurfaces
Spanish media first reported in February 2026 that Real Madrid were monitoring Odegaard, potentially considering a reunion with their former player.
The Norwegian midfielder originally joined Real Madrid as a teenage prodigy before eventually moving to Arsenal permanently in 2021.
Despite the nostalgic link, Arsenal insiders insist the club has no intention of negotiating a sale.
Martin Odegaard Speaks on His Future at Arsenal
Odegaard himself recently addressed his happiness in London, reinforcing the idea that he is settled at the club.
Speaking to FourFourFour, he said:
“For sure.
“Moving around so much was good in one way, because I learned a lot and had to adapt, whether to different teams, different coaches or different cultures.
“But at the same time, you miss something. You miss stability, the feeling of being in one place and really belonging.
“That’s what I’ve found here at Arsenal and in London. From the first moment I walked into the training ground, I felt as if I belonged here. I felt at home, and that allowed me to settle properly.
“It’s a nice feeling to be part of something for a long time – to be part of a process, to grow together, to keep getting better.
“When I came here, we weren’t where we are now. To be part of that journey means a lot to me. It’s the same with the national team.”
Injury Concern Ahead of Champions League Clash
While his long-term future appears secure, Odegaard will miss Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen.
The Gunners face the German side at the BayArena in the first leg of the last-16 tie, but the midfielder will not feature due to a lingering knee issue.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the news ahead of the match, stating:
“He’s out.”
What Odegaard Means to Arsenal’s Project
Even with a season interrupted by injuries, Odegaard remains central to Arsenal’s identity.
As club captain and creative heartbeat, his leadership and technical ability are considered vital to the team’s long-term ambitions under Arteta.
Keeping Odegaard also signals Arsenal’s intent to build stability rather than cash in on star players.
Also Read: Arsenal F.C. Injury News: Mikel Arteta Gives Key Update Ahead of Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. Clash
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Martin Odegaard leaving Arsenal in the summer?
Current reports indicate Arsenal have no intention of selling Odegaard during the upcoming transfer window.
Which clubs have been linked with Odegaard?
Both Manchester United and Real Madrid have been mentioned in recent transfer rumours.
Why has Odegaard played fewer games this season?
The midfielder has dealt with injuries and increased competition in midfield, limiting his starts.
Will Odegaard play against Bayer Leverkusen?
No. He will miss the Champions League match due to a persistent knee problem.
How long has Odegaard been at Arsenal?
Odegaard joined Arsenal permanently in 2021 after an initial loan spell from Real Madrid.
Arsenal Make Final Decision on Martin Odegaard Transfer Amid Real Madrid and Manchester United Links