Martin Odegaard
There is no questioning that Odegaard is the orchestrator behind Arteta’s masterplan at Arsenal. He presses relentlessly, links the midfield and attack and plays neat reverse passes that few others see. He is the metronome at keeps this side ticking.
But the Norwegian cannot do it all himself. The congestion that comes with Premier League clubs’ fixtures means players cannot play every three days and require some rotation.
Milinkovic-Savic and Odegaard swapping places would be an ideal situation for Arteta, but one of them would not be happy with such an arrangement – and if Milinkovic-Savic costs anything near his eye-watering asking price, it may Odegaard who is left out.
Charlie Patino
One of Arsenal’s brightest talents has impressed with Blackpool after heading out on loan this season, but it is clear the 19-year-old needs to be playing regularly.
Most likely, Milinkovic-Savic’s arrival would surely force him to secure a temporary switch elsewhere in 2023-24 when he might have expected to get some first-team experience at the Emirates.
That will provide some concern for Arsenal fans, given how Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were able to show their ability with chances in the first team. Unfortunately, Patino may not be handed the same luxury.
