Unsettled captain of PL rivals asks his agent to open talks with United over bombshell transfer – report

Ahead of Manchester United’s clash against Arsenal last month, many fans of the North London club debated whether Martin Odegaard is better than Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes delivered a statement performance, helping United secure a remarkable 3-2 win at the Emirates. Odegaard, meanwhile, was hooked before the hour mark. The Portuguese maestro is undoubtedly the Premier League’s best number 10. However, the 31-year-old’s long-term future at United remains uncertain. Interestingly, it is being suggested that the Red Devils could turn to the Arsenal captain. Martin Odegaard wants Manchester United move According to a report in Foot Africa, Martin Odegaard is considering leaving Arsenal in the summer. It is believed the Norwegian midfielder has asked his agent to open talks with United over a stunning move to Old Trafford, following in the footsteps of Arsenal legend Robin van Persie, who joined Sir Alex Ferguson’s side in 2012. Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal into one of Europe’s most physically dominant sides, who heavily rely on set-pieces and crosses to unlock defences. The league leaders frequently dominate possession but rarely play between the lines, failing to make the most of Odegaard’s passing range and vision. Martin Odegaard Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsMinutes Played Premier League19151,065′ Champions League4-1215′ EFL Cup2–91′ FA Cup1–21′ Total26161,392′ The 27-year-old, who has completed 90 minutes of football just five times in the league this term, feels undervalued at Arsenal and is now “ready to leave, with tensions reported between him and Mikel Arteta.” Bayern Munich are keen to sign the former Real Madrid talent, but his preference is to remain in the Premier League. Accordingly, Odegaard is prioritising a move to United. Bayern Munich interested in Manchester United captain Vincent Kompany seems determined to add creativity to his side, as Bayern are also monitoring Bruno Fernandes. In January, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming the Bundesliga giants are working on convincing United to part ways with their leader, who is open to joining them.  United considered selling Fernandes last summer. As such, it is not far-fetched to assume INEOS could be tempted to cash in on the ageing midfielder again if Bayern table a significant offer. However, it is very unlikely Arsenal would entertain the possibility of losing their creative force to United once again, especially as Odegaard is tied to the club until the summer of 2028. Accordingly, it is advised to take the claim with a pinch of salt.  The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!