Arsenal prepared to meet price tag for Martin Odegaard

Arsenal are prepared to meet the price tag for Real Madrid playmaker Martin Odegaard, Italian journalist Rudy Galetti claims.

The Gunners are keen on landing a creative midfielder this summer, and they have identified Odegaard as their priority target.

The Norwegian spent the back end of last season with the club, and manager Mikel Arteta is keen to sign him permanently.

It is now reported that the Gunners are in negotiations with Los Blancos, and are optimistic of re-signing the playmaker.

Odegaard is currently uncertain over his Madrid future with the lack of assurance of a starting role under Carlo Ancelotti.

He has reportedly told his agent about his desire to leave. Los Blancos could sell him for a fee of around £42 million this month.

The Gunners appear to have a free run at signing the 22-year-old, but they may need to act fast before other clubs join the pursuit.

Chelsea and Liverpool have been linked with him in the past.