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Could new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta be about to sanction a huge incoming at the Emirates?
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Arsenal director Andre Berta has opened 'surprise talks' for a potential Martin Odegaard replacement. Odegaard, ranked at no. 27 in Four Four Two's list of the best players in the world right now, is under contract at the Emirates until 2028 and at 26, remains one of Mikel Arteta's key men. Club captain and all-around playmaker, the Norway international missed just a small fraction of the 2024/25 campaign, so could the Gunners really be in the market for a suitable understudy? It is no secret Arteta has to fill out his squad ready for next season, with the signings of Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres and Joan Garcia all already touted before the window has even opened. Another La Liga star, alongside Zubimendi and Garcia, has now been suggested, with his £50m release clause a potential avenue Berta could look to explore in the upcoming weeks. As reported by AS and Sports Witness, Takefusa Kubo's availability is once again piquing Arsenal's interest as they look at options in attack. Kubo, who registered 11 goal contributions for Sociedad last season, has rejected a recent £160m move to Saudi Arabia. Odegaard has come under criticism this term after failing to recapture form following an ankle injury early on in the season – and with Zubimendi's move already looks something of a certainty, there is reason to believe that Arsenal will move more to a double-pivot next season and phase out their captain. The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week. Liverpool are another club to have expressed their interest in the Japan international and after changing his agent in the past month, a move to the Premier League continues to murmur along. A lack of clarity around the Spanish club’s new project may also prove pivotal, after La Real failed to qualify for Europe, with manager, Imanol Alguacil, and sporting director, Roberto Olabe, both leaving the club. In Four Four Two's view, it remains to be seen whether Kubo would be suited to the fast-paced nature of the Premier League – and though Arsenal have been linked with new playmakers this season, it would be unlikely that he would directly replace Odegaard immediately, even if he may be seen as an upgrade over time. The 23-year-old would also probably have to deal with being a back-up star to some huge names at Liverpool and Arsenal, which may also deter any potential transfer as early as this summer. Matthew Holt writes freelance for Four Four Two, amongst others, and boasts previous experience at GOAL and SPORTBible. He now works with us alongside his time at Manchester United and Reach PLC, aiding with online content for the website. Career highs include working at the FA Cup final, as well as scoring at Old Trafford in front of the Stretford End. A long-term sufferer of his beloved Scunthorpe United, he is often seen on the padel court, as well as occasionally as a six-a-side call-up.
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