Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard open to Bayern Munich move

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is open to joining Bayern Munich in the future, according to Sky Sport.

The Bundesliga giants have kept in touch with the Norwegian midfielder over the years, while several other top European clubs are also monitoring his situation.

While previous discussions never led to a move, the 27-year-old playmaker is once again drawing attention in Germany.

However, Arsenal are keen to keep their captain and have already held initial informal talks with him over a new contract. 

His current agreement runs until 2028, but the Premier League champions want to secure his future well before he enters the final year.

Arsenal don’t want to lose him on a free transfer when his contract expires, so they’re hoping to get a deal done as quickly as possible.

However, the Gunners could consider selling Odegaard next summer if he doesn’t sign a new deal.

Arsenal have already received offers from several European clubs, so it’s clear that Odegaard has plenty of admirers across the continent.

While a move to Bayern has been mooted, they aren’t actively looking to sign the Arsenal captain.

They’re aware of his general interest, but he’s not a priority target at this stage. Odegaard has been a key player for Arsenal since joining from Real Madrid in 2021. 

He initially spent six months on loan at the Emirates Stadium before completing a permanent move in a deal worth around €35 million (£29m).

Odegaard proved to be a bargain buy for Arsenal. He has since made 248 appearances for the Gunners, bagging 46 goals and 47 assists. 

He has become one of Europe’s top attacking midfielders under Mikel Arteta’s leadership.

Odegaard captained Arsenal to their first Premier League title in two decades last season, although injury issues threatened to derail his campaign.

He has started this season in decent form, notching four goals and an assist in 14 games across all competitions.