Odegaard agrees personal terms with Galatasaray as €40m deal edges closer

Martin Odegaard could be on his way out of the Emirates Stadium after a significant step in a potential move to Turkish giants Galatasaray. The Arsenal captain’s agent has reportedly been in Istanbul to finalise personal terms, and sources indicate that there are now no outstanding issues from the player’s side. However, the two clubs still need to come to an agreement, with early discussions suggesting a fee in the region of €40 million is the target.

The Norway international has been a key figure under Mikel Arteta, but his influence has waned in recent campaigns. After lifting the Premier League title with Arsenal in the 2025-26 season, Odegaard’s contribution was far below the levels he reached during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns. Recurring injury problems have hampered his form, and the 27-year-old managed only one goal across 36 appearances in the title-winning season. That sharp decline has led to growing speculation that Arsenal might be open to cashing in.

Should Arsenal sell their captain?

Odegaard was once regarded as one of the Premier League’s finest midfielders, dictating play and chipping in with a healthy return of goals and assists. In 2022-23 he scored 15 goals, and in 2023-24 he netted 11, but the numbers have dropped off markedly since. Last season’s return of six goals in 45 games was a step down, and this year’s solitary strike underlines how far his output has fallen. For Arteta, the decision to sell may feel timely, especially as the club looks to refresh its squad and free up funds for reinforcements.

Yet finding a replacement of similar quality will not be straightforward. Odegaard’s ability to control the tempo of a game, combine high pressing with creative vision, and deliver in the final third is rare. Any player with that profile on the market would command a fee well in excess of the €40 million Arsenal could receive. The club would need to invest significantly more to bring in someone of comparable stature.

Galatasaray appear determined to push this deal over the line. With personal terms already settled, the ball is now in Arsenal’s court. The Turkish side are believed to be pushing for a structure that involves either a fee under €40 million or long-term instalments. Whether the Emirates hierarchy accept that remains to be seen, but the next few days could prove decisive for Odegaard’s future.

Supporters hoping to see their captain remain in north London may be disappointed, as the momentum is clearly leaning towards an exit. For the latest developments on this and other transfer sagas, keep checking latest news on Swiftscores.