Arsenal have reportedly made extending Martin Odegaard's contract one of the club's priorities this year.
The Norwegian midfielder has two years left on his current deal at the Emirates Stadium and the skipper remains a pivotal part of Mikel Arteta's plans despite significant recruitment this summer.
Odegaard lined up alongside new signings Declan Rice and Kai Havertz in midfield for their 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
The 24-year-old had his most productive campaign yet in a top-five European league last season, as Arsenal came close to a first title since 2004.
Fifteen goals and seven assists saw Odegaard stand out in a Gunners side which would ultimately finish second, but make a long-awaited return to the Champions League.
Being one of Arsenal's key men also has earned him a place on the nominees list for the PFA Player of the Year, which was announced on Thursday morning.
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Fabrizio Romano claims that Arsenal want to advance in talks with the player in the coming weeks over a new deal.
Nothing concrete is believed to be in place just yet, but initial discussions are set to commence soon.
Arsenal have already made big strides to keep their current crop together, agreeing new deals with Bukayo Saka and William Saliba already this summer.
Saka joined Odegaard on the list of players nominated for the PFA POTY, joining illustrious company such as Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Harry Kane and John Stones.
Another superb season could see Odegaard attract serious interest from other elite clubs, so Arsenal will want the ease of mind to tie him down long term.
Odegaard joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2021, and after signing on permanently, he has missed just three Premier League games, illustrating his value to the squad.
Andrew Delaney
