Martin Odegaard could be key in Arsenal's bid to sign 'world class' £33m player this summer - opinion

Arsenal playmaker Martin Odegaard could be crucial in a deal to sign one of Spain’s Euro 2024 stars this summer transfer window.

Arsenal have been biding their time in the window but are now closing in on their first signing of the summer with Riccardo Calafiori set to sign a five-year deal, joining from Bologna.

Now, attention will start to turn towards another player who starred in Germany and Martin Odegaard could be crucial in the negotiations.

• READ MORE: Juan Mata says £50m player Arsenal want to sign was absolutely outstanding during Euro 2024 final

Martin Odegaard could be key in Arsenal signing Mikel Merino

Arsenal have been heavily linked with Mikel Merino in recent weeks with Mikel Arteta even personally phoning him to try and get him to sign.

Now that Euro 2024 has come to a close, the Spanish midfielder is set to decide his next club with his Real Sociedad contract expiring in a year’s time.

The La Liga outfit are likely to sanction his sale if they receive an offer of around £33m, so it’s a feasible deal to do for the Gunners.

Martin Odegaard could be key in the negotiations as the pair played together during their time at Sociedad.

The Norwegian midfielder will likely have a direct line of communication with Merino, who has been labelled ‘world class’ per The Guardian, and could make a strong pitch to convince him.

Further, he would’ve put in a good word to Arsenal chiefs about the 28-year-old, providing additional information about his characteristics as a person.

Arsenal tussling with Barcelona

Arsenal aren’t alone in their interest in Merino.

European giants Barcelona are also keen on landing his signature this summer, so they’ll have to fend off stiff competition.

Barca are keen to signing Nico Williams, too, who is another player high up on Arteta’s shortlist.

In other news, England national media deliver verdict on Arsenal’s Declan Rice after Euro 2024 final defeat vs Spain.