The Norwegian will not leave Arsenal despite FC Barcelona’s interest in signing him.
Arsenal have made it clear that they are not willing to consider any bids for their captain Martin Ødegaard, despite the interest from FC Barcelona.
Gets more even though Barcelona have given up!
Read: Norway’s best against Estonia may be forced to stay if Manchester City make good on their giant bid
On Live you can follow Martin Ødegaard’s matches, both for Arsenal and for Norway.
The Norwegian, who made the switch from Real Madrid in 2021, has become a key player in Mikel Arteta’s project. Barcelona are said to have given up on their attempts already at an early stage, but could rekindle their interest at a later date. For now, Arsenal remain in full control.
Arsenal renew their commitment to Martin Ødegaard
In London, Arsenal have acted decisively to allay rumours of a possible Ødegaard departure. Broker Dean Jones stated that no offer will be considered, as the club sees the player as a crucial member of the project. Arsenal value both his performances on the pitch and his leadership within the team, and they are not willing to interfere with that stability.
Ødegaard, 26, has played over 200 games for Arsenal, with 41 goals and 40 assists. His upward curve has made him one of the most respected playmakers in Europe, and Arsenal are not willing to weaken their sporting armour in the short term.
FC Barcelona is watching, but Arsenal are standing firm
FC Barcelona’s interest in Martin Ødegaard is not new. The Blue and Reds are looking to strengthen their midfield and have identified the Arsenal player as a possible option for the 2026 window. However, the Catalan club will have to realise that Arsenal are not open to negotiating his departure. In addition, Barcelona’s financial situation limits their ability to pursue such a deal.
On the other hand, Arsenal are convinced that Ødegaard is an essential asset. According to club sources, the sale of the midfielder is out of the question, and his contract renewal has priority over any potential departure. In this scenario, Barcelona will need to explore other possibilities if they want to aim for an achievable goal.
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Arsenal shield their captain and complicate Barcelona’s return
Arsenal recognise that Martin Ødegaard is more than a player; he is the creative heart of the team and a symbol for the fans. Losing him would be a strategic blow. Therefore, in addition to rejecting Barcelona, the club is working to ensure his continuity through a new contract. Ødegaard, like other Arsenal captains, embodies the balance between youth and maturity that the project requires.
On the other hand, Barcelona are manoeuvring between their desire to strengthen their squad and financial constraints. Despite the ongoing interest in Ødegaard, the reality is that Arsenal are holding all cards in their hand. The Norwegian midfielder is protected, and until the club reconsiders its stance, the operation remains in a galactic limbo.
In short, Arsenal have made it clear that he is not for sale despite Barcelona’s interest. Martin Ødegaard will continue to be a cornerstone of the London club’s project at the moment, and any attempt to sign him will face a seemingly insurmountable hurdle.
Martin Ødegaard earns £12.4 million this season, Arsenal will increase this from next season.
