Martin Odegaard
Finally, Arsenal unveil fourth signing, Martin Odegaard
Arsenal have unveiled their fourth signing of the season after completing the capture Norway’s captain, Martin Odegaard from Spanish giants, Real Madrid on a permanent deal.
The Norwegian was officially unveiled to fans, Friday morning.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who joins for an initial £30m fee plus bonuses, was in London on Wednesday undergoing a medical after the two clubs reached an agreement.
The Norwegian star spent the second half of last season on loan with the Gunners after failing to break into the Real Madrid team under then coach, Zinedine Zidane.
He made 20 appearances across all competitions, with one of his two goals coming in the north London derby win over Tottenham in March.
Odegaard, who has been handed Jersey No. 8, will be unavailable for Arsenal’s Premier League clash with London rivals Chelsea on Sunday afternoon at Emirates stadium due to visa related issues.
The Norwegian was prioritised by the Gunners boss and Technical Director Edu as one of their top summer transfer targets and follows Ben White from Brighton & Hove Albion, Nuno Tavares from Benfica and Albert Sambi Lokonga from Anderlecht through the door at the Emirates.
Odegaard has penned a deal that will keep him in north London until June 2026.
As well as a centre-back, high on Arteta’s to-do list was to bring back Odegaard, who has been the sole priority in their midfield department since as early as June.
Odegaard was omitted from Real’s squad to face Alavés at the weekend, to negotiate his contract, before undergoing a medical on Wednesday.
However, could be in line to receive an Emirates ovation, this Sunday, when Arsenal face London rivals Chelsea.
Odegaard will wear the iconic shirt number 8 previously worn by present coach Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey.
