Arsenal fans are in for a rollercoaster ride as the January transfer window heats up, with shocking revelations about club captain Martin Odegaard’s future and two imminent deals that could reshape the squad. The Gunners, who remain seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, are navigating a critical period to maintain their title charge under Mikel Arteta.
Odegaard’s Position Under Threat
In a stunning development, reports have surfaced suggesting that Arsenal are eyeing a long-term successor for their Norwegian skipper, Martin Odegaard. According to ESPN, the north London club is pursuing Real Madrid’s rising star Arda Guler as a potential replacement in midfield. This comes amid claims that Odegaard has not been prioritized for a new contract, with sporting director Andrea Berta instead focusing on extensions for Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice, and the recently secured Bukayo Saka.
Odegaard, who has been a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s resurgence, has struggled for form this season, registering just one goal and three assists in 16 Premier League appearances. In contrast, the 20-year-old Turkish international Guler has shone at Madrid, contributing three goals and seven assists in 20 LaLiga matches. The turmoil at Real Madrid—following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso and the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa—could provide Arsenal with an opportunity to swoop in during this window, though no immediate January move has been confirmed yet.
Arteta’s side drew 0-0 against Nottingham Forest on January 17, 2026, missing a chance to extend their lead to nine points after Manchester City’s derby defeat. While Arsenal still hold a commanding position, reinforcements are seen as essential to fend off challengers and secure the title in May.
Two Deals on the Horizon
Adding to the drama, two long-serving players appear poised for exits in the coming days. Young sensation Ethan Nwaneri, the 18-year-old wonderkid, is nearing a loan move to Marseille. Sources indicate that Arsenal and the French club are in advanced talks for a temporary switch without a buy option, including a sizeable loan fee. Nwaneri is expected to travel to complete the deal after Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Inter Milan, allowing him to gain valuable experience under Roberto De Zerbi.
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Zinchenko’s future at the Emirates looks increasingly uncertain. The 27-year-old Ukrainian, who joined from Manchester City, had a disappointing loan spell at Nottingham Forest, making only four Premier League starts under Sean Dyche. Initial plans for a six-month loan to Ajax—where the Dutch side would cover his full wages—have evolved into negotiations for a permanent departure. A medical was scheduled for Tuesday but postponed as talks continue. Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reports that the ball is now in Arsenal’s court, but confidence remains high that an agreement will be reached soon.
These moves come as Arteta seeks to streamline the squad and bolster depth to avoid further slip-ups in a tightly contested title race. Zinchenko and Nwaneri were spotted together during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on August 30, 2025, but their paths now diverge as Arsenal prioritize evolution.
Arsenal’s Title Ambitions
Despite the recent draw at the City Ground—where a late penalty shout was waved away—Arsenal’s seven-point cushion provides breathing room. However, with Manchester City and Liverpool lurking, the Gunners cannot afford complacency. The January window offers a chance to emulate the squad-building prowess of their rivals, ensuring sustained competitiveness.
If these deals materialize and the Odegaard bombshell leads to action, Arsenal could emerge stronger. Fans will be watching closely as the next few days unfold, potentially marking a pivotal shift in the club’s trajectory. Stay tuned for updates as the transfer saga develops.