Arsenal
Martin Odegaard could make a switch to Bayern Munich in the future, despite being settled at Arsenal, as the German champions continue to keep in touch with the midfielder. The Gunners want their captain to sign a new deal, but uncertainty over his future could leave the door open to interest from elsewhere.
Bayern remain interested in Martin Odegaard
Odegaard is under contract at Arsenal until 2028, but the club are keen to extend that agreement before he enters the final year. The 27-year-old remains important to Mikel Arteta, and Arsenal are in contact with his representatives about a longer deal.
As reported by Metro, Bayern Munich have maintained contact with the Norwegian over several years. He is said to be open to playing for the Bundesliga side at some point in his career. Although happy in north London, he reportedly has a general interest in joining the German champions.
Bayern are not the only club monitoring his situation, with other major European sides also watching him. That interest could grow if Odegaard does not agree to fresh terms.
Arsenal are believed to be prepared to consider selling him next summer if contract talks fail. The club would not want to risk losing their captain for nothing when his current deal runs down. For now, though, an extension remains the most likely outcome.
The Norwegian has recovered from difficult spell
Questions were raised about Odegaard’s future around a year ago, when injuries and a drop in form affected his season. The midfielder struggled to make his usual impact, leading to uncertainty about his role at the Emirates.
He responded strongly towards the end of the campaign, helping Arsenal win their first Premier League title since 2004. He also captained the team during their run to the Champions League final, restoring his influence in Arteta’s side.
His start to the 2026/27 season has been even better. Odegaard has scored four goals and provided one assist, helping Arsenal compete in domestic and European competitions. His form has strengthened the case for the club to secure his future.
Arsenal also faced Bayern earlier this month, drawing 2-2 in the Champions League after Declan Rice scored a late equaliser. The match showed why both remain among the leading teams in European football.
Odegaard’s Arsenal stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB–
Competition Appearances Goals Chances Created Successful Passes(%)
Premier League 24 1 39 84.7%
FA Cup 2 0 6 86.4%
EFL Cup 2 0 1 84.8%
Champions League 8 0 10 84.9%
Arsenal
Arsenal face fresh questions after cup exit
Odegaard was expected to be rested for Arsenal’s EFL Cup match against Fleetwood Town on Tuesday. However, Arteta brought his captain on at half-time after the Gunners fell 1-0 behind against the League Two side. Arsenal equalized early in the second half but could not complete the comeback, losing on penalties in a major cup upset. The result made for a difficult night.
The focus will now return to the league, where Arsenal are joint-top of the table. They travel to Anfield on Sunday to face Liverpool in a fixture that could have a major impact on the title race.
Keeping Odegaard fit and committed will remain a priority for Arteta. The captain’s importance to Arsenal is clear, and the club will hope to settle his future with a new contract. Bayern’s interest, however, means the situation is worth watching if negotiations do not move forward.
Bayern’s ongoing contact with Odegaard has kept the possibility of a move alive, even though Arsenal remain keen to retain their captain.