Arsenal legend Ray Parlour says the Gunners got themselves a bargain when they signed Martin Odegaard for £35m.

During the summer of 2021, there were reports that Mikel Arteta’s side were pursuing Leicester City’s James Maddison but they ultimately decided to snap up Odegaard on a permanent basis instead. Parlour thinks Arsenal have reaped the benefits since the Norwegian’s move:

“He’s been a brilliant signing Odegaard. They tried to go for Maddison, £60-£70m and they couldn’t get him probably. They went with Odegaard for £30-35m, what a steal. He’s never injured, he’s always wants the ball in tight situations. That’s why Real Madrid went in for him as a youngster, he didn’t make it, but now he’s such an important player for Arsenal.”

The decision to recruit Odegaard has turned out to be absolutely inspired. During his initial six month loan spell at the Emirates, the playmaker was far from convincing but manager Mikel Arteta and the club’s sporting director Edu saw something in him.

While he was still pretty inconsistent last season, the 24-year-old has been simply outstanding this campaign, helping the Gunners mount an unlikely title challenge.

Odegaard leads by example and, as Parlour points out, his superb fitness and technical ability make him a tremendous asset to have in the squad.