Arsenal face a decision over Martin Ødegaard’s future after Bayern Munich continued to monitor the club captain ahead of a potentially significant 2027 transfer window.
The Norway international remains central to Mikel Arteta’s plans, but his current contract runs until June 2028. Arsenal have already opened informal discussions about an extension as they seek to avoid the midfielder entering the final year of his deal.
Bayern Munich interest in Martin Ødegaard remains under review
Bayern have maintained contact with Ødegaard’s representatives over a number of years and are understood to be keeping track of developments. The Bundesliga champions are not currently believed to regard him as a priority target, however, and there is no formal negotiation between the clubs.
Reports from Germany have also indicated that Ødegaard could see himself playing for Bayern at some stage. Juventus are among the other major European clubs monitoring the situation, although their interest appears to be less advanced.
Arsenal remain in control of the situation and are not under immediate pressure to sell. Any decision to consider a transfer should only arise if attempts to agree a new contract genuinely break down.
Ødegaard is not only Arteta’s captain but also one of Arsenal’s principal creative players and an important part of their pressing structure. Replacing those qualities would require more than simply finding another attacking midfielder.
Arteta underlined the importance of the 27-year-old after his strong start to the campaign, saying: “That’s the Martin we know and we love; he is our captain. We need to keep giving him the ball and letting things happen.”
Arsenal’s priority is therefore expected to be securing Ødegaard on a long-term deal in the coming months. If that cannot be achieved, a major sale in 2027 could become a financial consideration, but retaining him remains the preferred outcome.
