Arsenal legend Ian Wright says the Gunners should do everything possible to sign midfielder Martin Odegaard on a permanent deal in the summer.

The Norwegian will return to Real Madrid when his loan spell expires at the end of the season but, after witnessing the playmaker’s performance against West Ham at the weekend, Wright thinks manager Mikel Arteta will be desperate to keep him at the Emirates:

“We have to find a way to sign him. He is the one. We are talking about a guy who is very slight but doesn’t get himself into that kind of traffic or trouble. Arteta must be on the sideline thinking: ‘This is what I need. This is the guy.’ He is the first person to press, win the ball. (He is) so efficient on the ball. This is a player we need. He looks so impressive.”

Odegaard has not ruled out staying at Arsenal, but it will likely come down to finances and whether Real are willing to compromise on their current asking price.

Reports suggest that the La Liga champions are currently holding out for £40m, which is not a fee the Gunners will be able to pay unless they offload some players first.

Another loan deal is reportedly a more realistic option but it would be hoped that, in any future negotiations over a temporary move,  a purchase clause could also be worked out.