Mikel Arteta could elevate Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard to new heights with the addition of two proven Premier League stars reportedly on Arsenal’s radar.
Last season, Saka suffered a hamstring injury in December that sidelined him for 19 games – a major blow to Arsenal’s title push. The 23-year-old has been a consistent and vital figure for the Gunners, but the physical toll is starting to show.
Odegaard faced a similar setback at the beginning of the campaign. An ankle sprain ruled the club captain out for two months. While both players are clearly fit and resilient, the relentless schedule is taking its toll.
When you’re playing nearly every minute of every game, something eventually gives. For Arteta, the solution is clear. Bring in reliable reinforcements to allow effective rotation without sacrificing quality. Two names that have surfaced could be ideal for this task.
Christian Norgaard of Brentford is one. According to The Standard, both Arsenal and Spurs are interested in the 31-year-old midfielder.
While Norgaard operates in a deeper role than Odegaard, his football intelligence and work rate are comparable to the Norwegian’s. He’s also demonstrated leadership as Brentford captain – something that would be an asset in the Arsenal dressing room.
Norgaard wouldn’t necessarily come to sit on the bench. If Thomas Partey departs, the Danish international could slot into a key midfield role, offering Arsenal control and composure in possession.
Crucially, he also represents a player Arteta could trust to deputise for Odegaard in less high-stakes games, such as cup games or various Champions League fixtures, allowing the skipper to recover and avoid repeat injuries.
As for Saka, Noni Madueke has been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates. The Athletic reports that Chelsea could be tempted by a ‘high enough’ offer – thought to be around £50m – for the 23-year-old winger.
Madueke brings flair, pace, and one-on-one brilliance, mirroring much of what makes Saka such a threat. He’s not quite at the Arsenal star’s level yet, but his technique, directness and left-footed cutting runs offer a strong stylistic match.
Last season he scored 11 goals, including a hat-trick against Wolves, and regularly showed his ability to create danger down the right flank.
Arteta doesn’t just need rotation options – he needs players who can slot seamlessly into a high-performing side without diminishing its threat. Madueke could be that player for Saka, helping reduce the winger’s minutes while maintaining Arsenal’s attacking edge.
Saka and Odegaard remain Arsenal’s heartbeat, but to mount a serious title charge- and sustain it – Arteta must play the long game. Bringing in players like Norgaard and Madueke could be the key to unlocking that next level.
