The Norway captain has just over 18 months remaining on his current agreement, which runs until June 2028, but insists he is happy in north London and is not concerned about the timing of negotiations.
“I’m happy and hope I can stay there [at Arsenal] for a long time to come, but we haven’t started on that yet,” Odegaard told Norwegian reporters while on international duty.
The 27-year-old has remained an important figure under Mikel Arteta despite injury problems last season and competition for places in Arsenal’s midfield. He has featured in all 10 of the club’s Premier League matches this term, scoring three times.
Odegaard’s latest goal came in the 1-0 victory over Hull City, when he reacted quickest to a rebound to settle a match that had remained goalless for 72 minutes. The result strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the table, opening a five-point advantage over Manchester City.
His comments suggest that, while a new deal has not yet been discussed, the captain is not looking towards an exit. He has previously been central to Arteta’s plans, combining creative responsibility with the leadership expected of the club captain.
Odegaard has also benefited from a more settled run of fitness after a campaign disrupted by injuries. His availability has allowed him to regain rhythm and maintain his place in the starting side, with Arsenal continuing to rely on his ability to link midfield and attack.
The immediate focus remains on the fixtures ahead rather than contract negotiations. Arsenal return from the international break with an away trip to Newcastle United before hosting Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Odegaard’s preference is clear, even if the formal process has yet to begin. He wants to remain at Arsenal for the foreseeable future, and the club will now have to decide when to open discussions over an extension.