Rio Ferdinand has named Arsenal star Martin Odegaard his player of the season so far but suggested a club like Barcelona could one day tempt him away from the Emirates.

Odegaard has enjoyed a magnificent season for Mikel Arteta’s side, turning in another superb display in Sunday’s north London derby victory over Tottenham.

The Norway international scored his side’s second goal with a fine effort from range and controlled the game from midfield as the Gunners ran out comfortable 2-0 winners to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points.

Odegaard has played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title charge with Ferdinand recognising his contribution. While Erling Haaland appears an early favourite for player of the season having already scored 27 times this term, the former Manchester United defender believes Odegaard is firmly in the running.

‘I’d go as far as to say right now, he’s probably my player of the year,’ Ferdinand told Vibe with Five. ‘Haaland’s has done what he’s done, he has been great, don’t get me wrong.

‘If Haaland eases up with the goals and Arsenal win the league and Odegaard continues, he’s my player of the year.’

Odegaard joined Real Madrid as a 16-year-old in 2015 but would make just 11 appearances during his six years on their books, showing his brightest form during spells away from the club on loan.

Having initially joined Arsenal on loan in 2021 before making the move permanent six months later, Odegaard has since been given the captain’s armband in north London although Ferdinand suggests were Barcelona to come in for him down the line, he could be tempted by a return to Spain.

‘The only place he goes is somewhere like Barca. If they come in, it’s a different conversation,’ Ferdinand said.

Odegaard recently dismissed the idea of joining Liverpool, the club he supported as a boy, insisting he plans to stay at Arsenal for as long as possible.

In an interview with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, he was asked if any interest from Jurgen Klopp’s side would tempt him. The 24-year-old replied: ‘There is not much that can lure me away from here. I have a very good time here.

‘The way it is now, I can see myself being here for several years.

‘I want to do something special here. Take part in shaping the club and winning things. That is the big goal. The plan is certainly to be here for a while.

‘I’ve moved a lot over the years. Landing a bit and feeling like I’m in a place where I’m going to be, that’s a good feeling. Hopefully I will be here for many years.’

Source: metro.co.uk