Arsenal
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Arsenal have launched a €11 million (£9.3m) bid for Brentford captain Christian Norgaard, as reported byThe Athletic’s David Ornstein. The Gunners are eyeing the experienced Danish midfielder as part of their summer midfield revamp, with Thomas Partey expected to leave the club when his contract expires on June 30.
Ornstein revealed on Monday morning that Arsenal’s offer is now under consideration by Brentford, with Norgaard open to the move despite being tied to the Bees until June 2027. The 31-year-old, a key figure in Brentford’s rise to Premier League stability, has been a consistent presence in midfield since arriving from Fiorentina in 2019. He has made 192 appearances for the club, contributing 13 goals and nine assists.
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Norgaard enjoyed one of his strongest campaigns in 2024/25, registering five goals and four assists across 34 league starts. His leadership and tactical intelligence have earned widespread praise, including from former manager Thomas Frank, now at Tottenham, who once likened him to Liverpool’s Fabinho and labelled him “one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League.”
🚨BREAKING: Arsenal are exploring deal to sign Christian Norgaard from Brentford.
Arsenal have sent an opening offer of just over £9million.
Christian Norgaard and Martin Zubimendi will replace Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
[@David_Ornstein] pic.twitter.com/d3QQjdMMVb
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) June 25, 2025
Arsenal’s pursuit of Norgaard reflects their intent to reinforce midfield depth under new sporting director Andrea Berta. The North London club have already secured the signing of Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi in a £55 million deal, earmarked as Partey’s long-term replacement. But with Jorginho joining Flamengo on a free transfer and Partey’s exit imminent, the Gunners are also looking to add a reliable, Premier League-proven player to support Zubimendi and Declan Rice.
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Norgaard is seen as a strong candidate to fill that role. Former Arsenal scout Mick Brown described him as “a consistent performer who goes under the radar,” while club sources view his leadership qualities and versatility as valuable assets for a squad preparing to compete on multiple fronts next season.
Brentford’s response to Arsenal’s bid remains uncertain. While the club are reluctant to lose their captain especially following Frank’s recent departure to Spur, Norgaard’s desire to join a Champions League side could prove decisive. The midfielder is settled in London with his family, which may further smooth the path for a move to the Emirates.
This move comes amid an increasingly busy summer for Arsenal. The club is finalising a £5 million deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, while continuing to explore attacking options including Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško.
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