Arsenal free to sign Martin Odegaard?

Arsenal have been handed the opportunity to sign Martin Odegaard permanently from Real Madrid, Marca reports.

The Norwegian spent the second half of last season on loan with the Gunners. He registered two goals and two assists from 20 games.

The club are exploring a permanent deal for him, and Marca claims that Los Blancos are open to sanctioning the move.

Odegaard does not have the assurance of a starting role with Madrid despite the change of head coach during the summer.

Madrid are looking to ease their financial problems through player sales, and they are willing to sell Odegaard for £52 million.

The valuation could be a stumbling block for the Gunners, who need to recoup funds before making any more signings.

They have already spent over £70m this summer to sign Albert Sambi Lokonga, Nuno Tavares and Benjamin White.

The spending is likely to continue with a new goalkeeper, right-back, attacking midfielder and striker among the key targets.