According to latest reports, PSG are contemplating a move for Martin Odegaard of Arsenal as a possible replacement for their World Cup winner Lionel Messi. Odegaard has played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s turnaround under Mikel Arteta. The 24-year-old now considers north London his home, and he plans to spearhead another title charge the following year.
However, that could change if PSG come calling, as they are will be in a need of a player of similar profile as that of Lionel Messi. The Argentine is anticipated to quit the Ligue 1 leaders when his contract expires at the conclusion of the current campaign. Although the playmaker turns 36 this summer, his former club Barcelona is still interested in signing him, with his next destination is still up in the air.
PSG ready to ‘break the market’ to replace Lionel Messi with Martin Odegaard
Odegaard first arrived to Emirates Stadium in January 2021 on loan from Real Madrid before completing the move there permanently that summer for about £30 million. Although several questioned Arsenal’s decision to purchase Odegaard from Real Madrid, the Premier League powerhouses have had great success with their acquisition, who now captains the north London club.
The Evening Standard reported earlier this week that the Norwegian international, whose contract runs until 2025, is ‘in line for a new deal as the club are looking to secure his long-term future’. However, according to the Spanish publication Fichajes, ‘PSG want to break the market with the signing of Odegaard,’ as the Parisians plot a €65 million for the youngster this summer.
Ahead of this summer, PSG are ‘evaluating options,’ and the Arsenal star has ’emerged as an attractive option’. The French club will have more money to work with thanks to Lionel Messi’s departure, which significantly reduced their pay cost. The club will prioritise acquiring and fostering youthful talent, and it is prepared to pay higher transfer costs to secure players whose salaries might not be as high.
PSG have selected Odegaard as a prospective acquisition after his standout year with the Gunners. The Norwegian has developed into one of the top players in the Premier League and has been crucial to Arsenal’s successful season. Odegaard was voted Premier League Player of the Year at the London Football Awards in March. He has scored 15 goals and provided seven assists, with his impact on the Gunners evident.
However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is anticipated to respond to this immediately in an effort to negotiate a long-term contract for the former Real Madrid star. Despite having the option of a one-year contract extension, the North London club prioritises extending their captain’s existing deal, which has two years still to run on it.
PSG too are thought to be adamant on their push, as they believe the prospect of replacing Lionel Messi at the club, plus a bigger contract would be enough to entice the Premier League player of he season contender. Meanwhile, the Argentina skipper is still undecided over his next step, with offers from Saudi Arabia and MLS on his table, alongside Barcelona’s.