Arsenal plan new contract talks with captain Odegaard

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Arsenal are preparing to open talks over a new contract for Martin Odegaard, with the club determined to tie down another of its key figures. The move would continue a busy period of contract business at the Emirates Stadium as Arteta looks to keep the core of his squad together.

According to Football Insider, Arsenal are planning to begin negotiations with Odegaard as soon as possible, viewing his long term future as a priority. The report suggests the club is confident the discussions can progress smoothly, with the belief that the Norwegian is settled in north London.

The timing comes as Arsenal work through several contract situations simultaneously. Mikel Arteta has already extended his own deal until 2030, while Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber are reportedly close to agreeing new terms of their own. Securing Odegaard's future would represent another significant step in that process.

A captain finding his form again

Odegaard has made an encouraging start to the season after a campaign disrupted by injury last time out. His return to full fitness and form has been a timely boost for Arteta, who continues to lean on his captain as a central figure in midfield.

Since joining Arsenal, Odegaard has grown into one of the club's most important players, both as a creative presence on the pitch and as a leader off it. Losing him would represent a significant setback for a squad that has steadily built momentum under Arteta in recent seasons.

Arsenal confident over resolution

Arsenal's relaxed stance on the matter stems from a belief that Odegaard is happy with the project being built at the club. The progress made under Arteta, combined with Arsenal's growing competitiveness domestically and in Europe, is seen as a strong incentive for the midfielder to commit his long term future.

The club's wider strategy has centred on retaining the players who have driven its improvement, rather than allowing uncertainty to creep into contract situations involving key figures. With Rice, Timber and now Odegaard all part of ongoing discussions, Arsenal appear intent on locking in stability across the squad.

Formal talks are yet to begin, but the direction of travel suggests both parties are aligned on extending a partnership that has become increasingly central to Arsenal's ambitions. Further updates on the negotiations are expected to follow in the coming weeks.