Arsenal confirm Martin Odegaard’s £34m transfer from Real Madrid

Arsenal have reportedly announced the permanent signing of Norwegian playmaker Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid.

Odegaard will be with the Gunners until 2026 in a deal rising to £34million, with the exciting youngster to wear the No.8 shirt in his second spell at the Emirates.

The 22-year-old will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of former iconic No8's in North London, with Ian Wright, Aaron Ramsey, Freddie Ljungberg and even current boss Mikel Arteta all achieving success with the number.

Odegaard impressed during his loan stint last term where he chipped in with two goals and as many assists in 20 outings.

From his 11 starts in the Premier League, he found himself on the winning side seven times, with two defeats coming against Liverpool and Manchester City.

Though he will not make his second debut in the London derby against Chelsea on Sunday with Arsenal still waiting for visa clearance.

He is Arsenal's fourth summer signing following the arrivals of Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokongo and Ben White.

Speaking of why Odegaard has been signed in his pre-match press conference, the Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said: 

"Well, there are a lot of things that he brought last season. He made us better.

"We needed more options, more alternatives, creativity and players that can be models in this football club.

"I am delighted the club has made an effort and we have Martin here."

Arteta had made signing a creative midfielder one of his priorities this summer, with Odegaard a target throughout the window.

However, Real Madrid were reluctant to part ways with the former Real Sociedad loanee until now.

His move has effectively ended Arsenal's pursuit of Leicester star, James Maddison who was believed to be valued north of £60million.

The Gunners maintain an interest in Lyon ace Houssem Aouar, though they face competition from rivals Tottenham in the race to secure his services.