Martin Ødegaard admits Arsenal contract talks yet to begin as Bayern circle

Martin Odegaard has admitted he is yet to begin talks over a new Arsenal contract, with Bayern Munich monitoring his situation.

The Norway captain, whose deal runs until 2028, will soon enter the final 18 months of his contract. “I’m happy and hope I can stay there [at Arsenal] for a long time to come, but we haven’t started on that yet,” Odegaard said.

According to Sky in Germany, Arsenal are aware they may have to sell if no agreement is reached soon, as they do not want to lose him on a free transfer. The 27-year-old has started all 10 of Arsenal’s Premier League games and leads the team with five goals in all competitions.

However, Mikel Arteta stressed fitness remains key. “First of all, he needs to be available,” he said. “And last year he missed so many games through injuries.” Odegaard faces growing competition in a champions squad that includes Eberechi Eze, Kai Havertz and Max Dowman.