Arsenal have now opened talks with Martin Odegaard over a new contract

Arsenal have now opened talks with Martin Odegaard over a new contract.

According to Charles Watts of TEAMtalk, Arsenal is hoping to extend Martin Odegaard’s contract with the club, with conversations taking place recently.

The Norwegian midfielder is regarded essential to Mikel Arteta’s team, and Arsenal are reportedly stepping up discussions with his representation.

Watts adds that there is no rush at this point, warning that these discussions might last the entire season, but Arsenal wants to recognize its club captain for his efforts and is in communication with his team to make it happen.

Arsenal have done a lot of good business over the last 12 months or so, making important signings and extending the contracts of a number of key players.

This year’s contract extensions include Gabriel Magalhaes, Aaron Ramsdale, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and William Saliba. Odegaard and Ben White appear to be next on the list.

Odegaard is under contract with Arsenal until 2025, with an option to extend it until 2026. Arsenal have now opened talks with Martin Odegaard over a new contract

Odegaard told the media in June that he hadn’t had new contract discussions with Arsenal yet, but that he was content in north London.

“I’m very happy here at Arsenal and hope to stay for a long time,” Odegaard stated. “Let’s see what happens with the contract situation after the summer.”

“I didn’t speak to Arsenal, it’s not on me honestly; no rush, my contract is still long.”

Odegaard appeared in 37 Premier League games for Arsenal season 2022/23, starting all 37. Only Ramsdale, Gabriel, and Saka spent more time in the league.

The midfielder scored 15 goals and provided seven assists in the league, making it his best-ever league goal contributions tally for a season (eclipsing his 18 with Vitesse in 2018/19).