Martin Odegaard has admitted that he tried to convince fellow Norway international Erling Haaland to join Arsenal this summer.
Haaland has established himself as one of Europe's most prolific centre-forwards over the last few seasons and was the subject of plenty of transfer interest due his 18-month spell with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund. Eventually, the young striker opted to join Manchester City this summer in a £63 million move but Odegaard has admitted he tried to get him in the door at the Emirates Stadium.
"He’s a great guy, great player and I think unfortunately for us he will be a great signing for Manchester City," the 23-year-old told talkSPORT when asked about Haaland. "For sure, he will score some goals.
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"I wish him all the best except for when we play them. It will be fun to see him in England.
"When all the Arsenal fans were posting pictures of him and me I would send it to him. I tried, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough… he just laughed."
Still, Haaland's move to the Etihad Stadium actually ended up helping Arsenal get former City frontman Gabriel Jesus instead, with the Brazilian international joining the north Londoners for £45million last month. Jesus has hit the ground running for the Gunners so far, netting seven goals in pre-season, including an impressive hat-trick against La Liga outfit Sevilla.
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