Martin Ødegaard's future is back in focus because his contract runs to June 2028, Arsenal have already held initial informal discussions over a new deal, and a sale next summer is being discussed if no agreement is reached. Bayern München are still part of the conversation, but the real decision sits with Arsenal.

Arsenal's contract timeline

Sky Sport reported that Arsenal would consider selling Ødegaard next summer if contract talks do not deliver a new deal. Sports Mole carried the same broad line, adding that a summer 2027 departure has emerged as a possibility if negotiations fail. Those are not the same timeline, and that gap is worth keeping in view. One version puts the pressure point on the coming summer, the other pushes it back a year.

The important detail is that the club are already moving on the contract itself. He has 2 Premier League goals in 8 appearances this season and has logged 652 league minutes, so this is not a case of Arsenal looking at a player who has drifted out of the side.

Bayern's long-running interest

Bayern's role is more background than active chase. Florian Plettenberg and Luca Sixtus, Sky Deutschland journalists quoted by thehardtackle.com, said there has been "ongoing contact over the past few years", which fits the picture of a long-term interest rather than a sudden move. Sports Mole also reported that Bayern are not currently pursuing an immediate transfer.

That is why the German angle should be read carefully. Bayern have the size and status to stay in the conversation, and Arsenal are still dealing with a player who has started 8 Premier League matches and remains heavily involved. He has also posted 2 goals and a 7.18 average Premier League rating, which is not the sort of output that usually points to a player being pushed out quickly.

What remains unresolved is the date. Arsenal's informal talks are already under way, Bayern's contact has been maintained for years, and the next clear marker is whether a new deal is agreed before the club ever gets to a possible sale next summer.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 6 outlets. How we work →