Arsenal suffer major Martin Odegaard transfer blow from Real Madrid

Arsenal have suffered a blow in their hopes of signing Martin Odegaard on a permanent transfer after news emerged from Spain of Real Madrid’s stance on the Norwegian.

Arriving in north London after growing impatient with the lack of playing time under Zinedine Zidane, Martin Odegaard expressed a desire to leave the capital club on loan in the January transfer window.

Of those interested, Mikel Arteta’s side came in with the promise of regular minutes for the talented 22-year-old, but even those well-versed in his talents may have been surprised to see that promise fulfilled to the extent it has.

Given time to integrate accordingly, he’s since been chosen to start the two biggest games of the season against Benfica, fixtures that came either side of Premier League clashes with Leeds and Manchester City, both of which he also started in.

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Arsenal suffer major Martin Odegaard transfer blow from Real Madrid after fine performances under Mikel Arteta

Emile Smith Rowe has to be nurtured due to his age and injury record. He needs time. Odegaard requires similar patience for different reasons. As he familiarises with his teammates and builds up sharpness supporters will see the true making of this outstanding talent.

Already, however, we’re seeing his ability in motion. He is a different operator to Smith Rowe with his ability to pick a pass in the final third; his vision is best used in front of opposing defences, while Smith Rowe has shown his strengths drifting into half spaces and assisting the strikers with supporting runs.

Given the splendid level of his performances so far, and the worrying injury sustained to Smith Rowe setting him up for a prolonged stint in the No. 10, the calls to sign him permanently from Madrid grow louder by the week.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget he isn’t contracted to the Gunners. He’s inherited the ‘Arsenal way’ in his short time at the club, even if enough of his traits boasted such features before he even pulled the shirt on.

All of which is worrying. As his performances continue to earn praise, Madrid may change their tune.