Paul Merson floats shock Martin Odegaard exit theory as Arsenal weigh major squad overhaul

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has suggested that Martin Odegaard could emerge as one of the most surprising departures of the summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to evolve his title-winning squad.

The Norway international captained Arsenal to their first Premier League crown in more than two decades last season, but questions have emerged over whether the club’s tactical direction could eventually leave their skipper vulnerable.

Merson raises possibility of surprise departure

Odegaard has been one of the defining figures of Arsenal’s resurgence under Arteta, contributing 42 goals since arriving from Real Madrid and becoming the first Gunners captain since Patrick Vieira to lift the Premier League trophy.

However, Merson believes Arsenal may be considering difficult decisions as they attempt to remain at the top of English football.

Speaking on The Sports Agents, the former Arsenal star admitted his theory may sound extreme but argued that the club could be assessing whether a different attacking profile is needed moving forward.

“It’s madness for me to be saying this, but they probably will be thinking about that,” Merson said when discussing a potential Odegaard sale.

“For me, there would still be teams queuing around the block to sign him. But when you play in the position that Odegaard plays in, you’re screaming out for pace up front. You have to have pace.”

The comments reflect a growing debate over Arsenal’s attacking balance and whether the squad requires more direct runners to maximise its creative talent.

Former players question his long-term role

Merson is not alone in questioning whether Odegaard’s place in the side is as secure as it once appeared.

Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol suggested Arsenal’s increasing competition in attacking midfield could create a difficult situation for the club captain.

“Odegaard might be leaving Arsenal,” Nicol told ESPN. “If you’re Martin Odegaard, do you stick around? I don’t think you do.”

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf also pointed to the growing influence of Eberechi Eze, who has reportedly impressed Arsenal’s coaching staff with his direct style of play.

“I’ve always liked Martin Odegaard because he’s elegant and technically gifted,” Leboeuf said.

“But he’s not as influential as he once was. Eze is more vertical, more direct and can have a greater impact in the final third. He could also help a striker like Viktor Gyokeres.”

Arteta ready to reshape champions

The speculation arrives during a summer in which Arsenal are expected to make several significant decisions regarding the squad.

Despite ending their long wait for a Premier League title, the Gunners suffered disappointment in Europe after losing the Champions League final to Paris Saint-Germain. Arteta has already spoken about the need to remain ambitious and avoid standing still.

Reports suggest Arsenal could be willing to listen to offers for several established first-team players as part of a wider rebuild.

Gabriel Jesus has been linked with a move away from the Emirates, while Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Ben White have also been mentioned as potential departures should suitable offers arrive.

Is Odegaard really at risk?

While there is currently no indication Arsenal are actively looking to sell their captain, Merson’s comments have added fuel to an intriguing debate.

Odegaard remains one of the club’s most technically gifted players and a key leader within the dressing room. However, with Arteta determined to keep Arsenal at the summit of English football, no major decision can be completely ruled out.

For now, the suggestion of Odegaard leaving remains speculative, but as Arsenal prepare for another ambitious summer, even some of the club’s biggest names may find their futures coming under scrutiny.