Martin Odegaard clarifies Arsenal future as Champions League club prepare move

The Gunners captain has 18 months left on his current contract in north London. Arsenal are keen to agree an extension with the midfielder to prevent him entering the last 12 months of his deal.

Injury issues and inconsistent form raised questions over his long-term future at stages in north London last season. But the skipper has returned to form this campaign, still one of Mikel Arteta 's first choice picks in midfield despite the intense competition for places.

While he remains a key figure at the Emirates, reports have suggested uncertainty over his contract situation has invited interest from elsewhere. Sky Germany reported last month Bayern Munich have had 'ongoing contact' with Odegaard who would be open to joining the German giants if he were to leave Arsenal.

The report added the Premier League champions will consider a sale next summer if a new deal is not agreed, unwilling to risk losing him on a free transfer. 'I'm happy and hope I can stay there [at Arsenal] for a long time to come, but we haven't started on that yet,' Odegaard said when asked about his contract situation.

Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about - powered by Metro and trusted publications. Odegaard scored Arsenal's winner as they beat Hull City in their final game before the international break.

It moved his side five points clear at the top of the Premier League ahead of Brighton with Manchester City faltering badly in recent weeks, losing three games on the spin to fall from top spot. The champions return to action away to Newcastle United on Saturday 21 November.