Welcome to the football.london transfer briefing. To help you keep on top of all things Arsenal going on in the market we've got the latest noises coming from social media, journalists and so-called ITKs, rounding up what's what in the world of the Gunners.
Marseille relationship
Arsenal could continue to make the most of a prospering relationship with Marseille as two of their current players seek new options heading forward.
After seeling midfielder Matteo Guendouzi to the Ligue 1 side following a loan move in the south of France, it is reported that the Gunners could follow that up by trying to send Nuno Tavares back there next season. As well as building up good will during a temporary move for William Saliba, the clubs are in a good place.
Now, if Tavares isn't to the liking, it could be the turn of Folarin Balogun to try out another team in Europe. He was on loan at Stade de Reims last season but has already opened up on his determination not to go out on another loan.
football.london says: With young players around the squad and depth being key for Arsenal to build, forming good bonds with clubs across the continent is a positive sign. They have already born the fruits with Saliba, as mentioned and will be hopeful of getting a similar outcome from their next experiment.
However, when it comes to Balogun, the 21-year-old has passed the Ligue 1 test and will struggle to be convinced that he cannot make a step to a top side. Marseille are on the rise but whether it's the standard he would want is another question.
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Premier League clubs are interested in him and if Mikel Arteta isn't willing to give him a go then other teams will. He has already become an undroppable for the USMNT and has proved that the same could soon be the case for one of Arsenal's opponents next season too.
Odegaard statement
Martin Odegaard has refused to be rush into any new contract decisions as the Arsenal star prepares to enter the final two years of his deal.
After making his loan move from Real Madrid permanent in 2021, the Norway midfielder has become a fan favourite and club captain as he leads a young squad around him. His form for the Gunners has attracted much interest from across Europe, though.
French champions Paris Saint-Germain are said to be amongst those plotting a move for the 24-year-old. Odegaard has allayed any current fears of a potential exit, though.
"I'm very happy at Arsenal and I hope to stay here for long time. Let's see on contract situation after the summer," he said. "I didn't speak to Arsenal, it's not on me honestly; no rush, my contract is still long"
football.london says: Arsenal cannot afford to lose Odegaard, that goes without saying, but after signing Aaron Ramsdale and Bukayo Saka to new deals there is precedent for securing their stars for the long-term.
Ben White and Saliba are set to follow on that front and for the Arsenal captain to join them would be the statement needed to further add certainty to the promising project ongoing at the Emirates Stadium.
As Odegaard is confident and calm on the pitch, he is dealing with questions of his future in the same grace and it's a good sign for fans.
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