Arsenal legend Alan Smith has identified Martin Odegaard as the player most likely to be sold as Mikel Arteta pursues Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers. Arteta views the 23-year-old England international as a top summer target to strengthen his title-winning squad, with the transfer potentially exceeding £100 million.
Rogers emerges as key target
Rogers has established himself as one of the Premier League's best midfielders over the past two years, helping Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League and winning the Europa League last season. His form earned him a place in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad, and he has already appeared as a substitute in England's first two group games. Despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester United, Arsenal are confident of winning the race.
Odegaard's future in doubt
Smith told BestBettingSites: 'I suppose, you know, they'd want to get really good money for Martin Odegaard as well. You can't bring Rogers in without somebody going out because Eberechi Eze is in there as well, and he likes to play in a similar position.' Odegaard, a mainstay since joining from Real Madrid in 2021, struggled with form and fitness last season, scoring just one goal. Reports earlier this week indicated Arsenal would be open to selling the captain if a suitable offer arrives.
Fellow Arsenal legend Paul Merson also raised doubts about Odegaard's future. 'It's madness for me to be saying this, but they probably will be thinking about that [selling Martin Odegaard],' Merson said on The Sports Agents. 'But for me, I still think there'll be teams queuing round the block for him… When you play in the position that Odegaard plays in, you're screaming out for pace up front.'
Villa's valuation and squad impact
Smith acknowledged Villa's high asking price: 'Every player available seems to get quoted for £100m or somewhere close to it. It's all part of the negotiation, I suppose, for the selling club. But he's a youngish player, an England international and a player who is very good and proven at Premier League level. So Aston Villa will start high in terms of a fee – clubs will certainly have to pay a good few quid for him.'
Odegaard is not the only Arsenal player linked with an exit; the club is also open to offers for Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Ben White. Additionally, Arsenal are in the market for a new striker, though Atletico Madrid are holding firm over Julian Alvarez.
Rogers' potential praised
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins praised his club and country teammate: 'Morgan can go to the very top. You've seen what he can do in a short space of time in 18 months, how he's developed and started to perform at the top, top level which has got him all the recognition he deserves. I think he's got his head on his shoulders at the end of the day, he's an intelligent guy who is hardworking and confident in his own ability and I think he can go to the very top.'
