Arsenal have opened negotiations with Real Madrid over a permanent deal for Martin Odegaard, 90min reports.

The Gunners are keen on landing a creative midfielder this summer, and Odegaard is reportedly their main target.

The Norwegian has been involved for Los Blancos in pre-season, but he is evaluating his future with the club.

He does not feel important under manager Carlo Ancelotti, and could leave the club for good this summer.

According to 90min, the Gunners are now in contact with Los Blancos over a permanent deal for the playmaker.

Odegaard won't come cheaply for them. Los Blancos are likely to demand an initial fee of more than €40 million.

The Gunners have also been linked with Leicester City's James Maddison, but he appears as an alternative.

The England international will reportedly cost more than €70m. Maddison is open to joining the north London giants.

Arsenal start the new Premier League campaign with an away game against newly-promoted Brentford on Friday.