Odegaard open to Bayern Munich move as Arsenal face contract uncertainty

According to reports in Germany, Martin Odegaard is willing to consider a surprise transfer to Bayern Munich. The Norwegian midfielder has maintained ongoing contact with the Bundesliga club, despite his current contract running until 2028.

The Daily Mail reported ^[1] that while Odegaard is happy and settled in north London, he could, in principle, imagine playing for the German champions in the future. This comes as Arsenal bosses are keen to tie him down to a new long-term deal to prevent him entering the final year of his current agreement.

Sky Germany notes that the Gunners are unwilling to lose Odegaard for free and will consider a sale next summer if he does not sign an extension. Bayern Munich is claimed to be waiting in the wings, having held talks with the 27-year-old over the past few years. Other top European clubs are also reportedly on the radar of the former Real Madrid man.

This speculation follows a turbulent period for the captain, who faced uncertainty around his future last year due to injury issues and a dip in form. He subsequently led Arsenal to their first Premier League title since 2004 and helped the side reach the Champions League final. His start to the 2026/27 campaign has been even stronger, with four goals and an assist contributing to domestic and European progress.

The transfer chatter arrives just as Odegaard issued a stark warning to his teammates following a humiliating Carabao Cup exit. The Independent reported ^[2] that Arsenal were knocked out by League Two side Fleetwood Town on penalties, one of the biggest shocks in EFL Cup history. Odegaard came off the bench to improve their performance but admitted the team was not at its best.

"We need to step up even more," Odegaard said, urging his squad to avoid self-pity. Despite the setback, Arsenal sit joint-top of the Premier League and face Liverpool at Anfield this Sunday. The club’s management hopes to secure Odegaard’s future to maintain stability as they chase silverware.