Merson Backs Arsenal to Cash In on Odegaard Despite Quality Concerns

Paul Merson has suggested that Arsenal might be tempted to move on from Martin Odegaard when the transfer window opens, even as he acknowledges the Norwegian's continued appeal to rival clubs.

Fresh off securing their first Premier League crown in 22 years under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have ambitions of climbing higher still next season—particularly after falling short in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. Yet that quest for the next level could see established squad members heading for the exit.

Odegaard's campaign proved notably underwhelming by his standards, contributing just one goal and six assists in the league. That represents a stark drop from his 2023/24 haul of 18 goal contributions, and it's prompted speculation about his future at the club. Reports have previously identified both Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli as potential departures, with the Gunners understood to be holding firm at a €95m (£82m) valuation.

Still, Merson isn't entirely convinced a sale would be wise. "There'll be teams queuing round the block for him," the former Arsenal man insisted, emphasizing that Odegaard's quality in his position demands pace in supporting attacking roles.

However, other observers see the writing on the wall. Liverpool legend Steve Nicol pointed out that Odegaard's standing has shifted considerably. Once the undisputed focal point just 18 months ago, he now faces questions about whether he even commands a starting berth—particularly with competition from Eze, whose recent form has raised fresh challenges for the captain.

Fellow analyst Frank Leboeuf concurred, noting that while Odegaard possesses undeniable elegance on the ball, his influence has waned. With Eze operating in a more vertical, penetrative fashion and contributing to the team's attacking thrust, Odegaard's traditional role as a horizontal distributor has diminished in importance. The pundit suggested that for Odegaard himself, the decision to remain could prove genuinely difficult.