Arsenal have increased their interest in Norwich star Emiliano Buendia as they look to sign a new creative midfielder given the uncertainty over Martin Odegaard's future.
The Gunners are said to be in the market for a creative player this summer and have been long-term admirers of the City star, but a deal taking the 24-year-old from Norfolk to London has never materialised.
The Argentine has enjoyed a successful season with the Canaries who secured promotion back to the Premier League and, individually, he has been nothing short of outstanding.
Buendia has enjoyed his best season in England so far, registering 15 goals and 17 assists in 39 Championship appearances, and according to Goal, Arsenal's technical director Edu is now firming up the Gunners' interest. However, they're yet to submit a formal offer.
The situation around Odegaard is still unclear. The Norwegian signed on loan from Real Madrid back in January to add some creativity to midfield, but whether or not he will return permanently or temporarily next season remains to be seen.
While Los Blancos have repeatedly insisted the 22-year-old has a future at the Bernabeu, their current financial state along with the uncertainty over Zinedine Zidane's position means an extended stay for Odegaard in London shouldn't be totally ruled out.
Norwich are said to want a fee in the region of £40m for Buendia, partly due to the fact he still has three years remaining on his current contract, but it's worth noting he and Odegaard are not the only options the club are considering.
Real Betis' Nabil Fekir is another player Edu is said to be keeping close tabs on and could be an alternative in the event the Gunners are unable to secure the services of either of the aforementioned pair.
Source: 90min
