Italian journalist reveals Martin Odegaard contract clause at Arsenal

Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has shed light on a significant clause embedded in Martin Odegaard’s current Arsenal contract, revealing that talks are planned to determine the player’s future at the club.

Odegaard, the Norwegian playmaker and Arsenal’s club captain, made a permanent move to the Gunners from Real Madrid in August 2021, following a successful loan spell at the Emirates Stadium during the previous season. Since then, he has emerged as a key figure within the team, notching up an impressive tally of 15 goals in the Premier League this season.

Manager Mikel Arteta has been effusive in his praise for Odegaard, particularly highlighting his leadership qualities.

In a recent interview with BBC Sport, Arteta said,

“He has a character that everybody respects, everybody admires and everybody follows. He does it in his own way. There are many ways to lead a team, and he has a unique one. We don’t want to take anything from that. We are really happy he represents the club in the way he does.”

With Odegaard’s teammate Bukayo Saka recently signing a new four-year contract, attention has shifted to other players in the squad, including Martin Odegaard and William Saliba, who have yet to secure contract extensions this season. Saliba’s current deal is set to expire next summer, and negotiations for an extension are ongoing.

As for Odegaard, his existing contract with Arsenal runs until the summer of 2025. However, Romano has revealed an intriguing clause in the agreement that favors the club.

Taking to Twitter, Romano confirmed that Arsenal holds a one-year contract extension option for Martin Odegaard, which could potentially keep him at the club until 2026.

Nonetheless, the club’s intention is to engage in discussions to secure an improved long-term deal for the player instead. It is reported that Odegaard has a strong affinity for the club, and Arsenal desires his continued involvement in their long-term project.

This recent revelation aligns with a previous report by The Athletic in October, which indicated that Arsenal possessed extension options for several existing players. However, the club aimed to reward exceptional performances with improved contracts.

Throughout the season, Arsenal has successfully secured the futures of rising stars such as Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Aaron Ramsdale, all of whom have signed enhanced contracts.

Saka’s commitment to the Emirates Stadium was officially announced on Tuesday, with Arsenal hoping to replicate this positive outcome in the ongoing talks with Odegaard. The club values the midfielder’s contributions and aims to secure his services for an extended period as they build towards a prosperous future.

As discussions unfold between Arsenal and Martin Odegaard, fans eagerly await a resolution that will solidify the player’s presence in the team, ensuring his continued impact on the pitch for years to come.