Manchester City and Chelsea are two sides who have an excellent grasp of the market for Europe’s best young talent.
Both academies are brimming with youngsters that the club have smartly acquired from their extensive scouting networks.
And with that in mind, it seems Arsenal will now attempt to compete with some of their rivals to sign the best of the next generation.
Wolfsburg’s 17-year-old David Odogu is thought to be a huge talent, a player compared to Antonio Rudiger of late.
And with Arsenal reportedly interested in the central defender, a recent update could be important ahead of January.
Journalist Florian Plettenberg took to X earlier today to express Odogu’s willingness to leave in the winter, even if that’s something that wouldn’t interest his club.
Plettenberg said: “News Odogu: The 17 y/o center-back still open to leave Wolfsburg in winter!
“Arsenal, Chelsea, Leicester, all informed about contract details.
“He’s definitely on the list of Brentford. They like him.
“But: Wolfsburg boss Schäfer wants to keep him! VfL does not intend to give him [green] light for a transfer now!
“His youth contract will automatically be converted into a professional contract until 2027 once he turns 18 on June 3rd.”
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David Odogu happy to leave Wolfsburg in January amid interest from Arsenal
Of course, it’ll also be noticed that Chelsea are named as club interested, which could prove tough competition for Arsenal.
There’s no doubt that Arteta’s side would benefit from additions at the back, but with ‘very talented’ Odogu yet to make his senior debut he would initially be a signing for the academy.And given their upwards trajectory in the last year or so, perhaps Arteta’s biggest challenge is now maintaining a relationship between his youth squads and the first team.
The expectations are now so high at Arsenal that it’s harder than ever for a young player to come through.
It’ll be interesting to see how Arsenal do approach the January window, one that is looking more important by the day.
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