Martin Odegaard has signed a five-year deal to Arsenal from Real Madrid and the Norwegian could play against Chelsea on Sunday.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the paperwork has already been signed and Odegaard, 22 – who is said to be double vaccinated – has been handed a contract until June 2026.
The Norwegian left Arsenal’s Colney training base just after 4 pm on Wednesday having completed his medical and media duties and he could be involved in Chelsea’s visit to the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.
Romano tweeted: “Martin Odegaard to Arsenal, here we go and deal confirmed!
“Permanent move – bit less than €40m to Real Madrid. Personal terms already agreed on five years contract.
“Edu and Arteta wanted Odegaard as an only priority since June, the strategy was correct… and now, done deal.”
Odegaard spent last season on loan at the Emirates and put in some impressive performances.
But it appeared he hadn’t done enough for Arsenal to push for a permanent deal, and he returned to Real Madrid.
Odegaard did not train with his Real teammates on Tuesday as he looked to thrash out his future.
The midfielder scored two goals in 20 appearances under Gunner’s boss Mikel Arteta last season.
But Arsenal was dealt a blow when it looked like Madrid was set to keep hold of him as cover for the injured Toni Kroos.
The Gunners were able to fund the deal after they sold Joe Willock to Newcastle for £25m.
Odegaard’s agent landed in London on Tuesday to finalize the move. He had two years left on his Real contract but it gradually became apparent he did not have a future under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.
The final nail in the coffin was when he was left without a squad number as his No 21 shirt was handed to Rodrygo.