Barcelona are already turning their attention to long-term planning, with Director of Football Deco confirming that the club do not intend to make signings during the upcoming January window. Instead, preparations are focused on next summer and beyond, with the primary target believed to be a striker.
However, reports suggest the Catalan side are also exploring midfield options, with Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard emerging as a potential candidate. According to Indykaila, Barcelona have placed the Norwegian playmaker on their radar for a possible move in the summer of 2026, believing that he could seek a new challenge as he approaches 27.
Financial limits and squad competition
Odegaard’s current deal with Arsenal will have two years remaining by next summer, meaning Barcelona would have to make a sizeable financial offer to tempt the Premier League club into selling. Given the club’s ongoing salary cap struggles and their need to strengthen other areas — particularly attack and defence — a move of that scale appears difficult at present.
The current midfield setup already features Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, leaving no guaranteed place for another creative option. Even so, Odegaard could see an opportunity to displace Olmo or Fermin, neither of whom has yet secured a permanent starting role. Another possibility would see him line up alongside De Jong and Pedri in a three-man midfield.
Future considerations for both clubs
For now, the Norwegian’s potential switch remains distant, as Barcelona have more urgent priorities in other positions. Any significant investment would likely depend on player sales or swap deals to generate funds.
It is also worth noting that with Odegaard’s contract running until 2027, his representatives may soon begin negotiating improved terms at Arsenal. The speculation linking him to Barcelona could serve to strengthen his position in those talks, even if a transfer remains some way off.
