Real Madrid have named Martin Odegaard as one of their untouchable players in the transfer market.

It comes as a huge blow to Arsenal, who were desperate to sign the Norway international on a permanent basis this summer.

Mikel Arteta is a massive fan of the 22-year-old, who has hit the ground running since his loan in January.

The Spaniard was desperate for a creative midfielder in the winter transfer window with Norwich star Emi Buendia also chased.

But Real Madrid have put a spanner in the works by insisting that Odegaard will not be sold.

Martin Odegaard has been in fine form for Arsenal this season (
Image:
Offside via Getty Images)

According to Marca, Bernabeu chiefs have named the youngster as one of four untouchables.

Rodrygo, Fede Valverde and Vinicius Jr are the other three to be included.

It will come as a huge blow to Arsenal, while Ian Wright is a known fan of the midfielder.

"What you want to see from him [Odegaard] is a player that has got unbelievable potential and ability," he said last month.

"You want to see him in a game like that where he’s going to be in the meat and bones of the game where he’s got to pick the ball up and does what he does.

Arsenal are desperate to land Odegaard on a permanent basis (
Image:
Pool via REUTERS)

"He wants the ball and plays it, he’s very efficient with it. He done it in a game where Arsenal needed it.

The Gunners were without Odegaard against Slavia Prague in the Europa League with the playmaker still injured.

But his presence was not missed as Arsenal made light work of their Czech opponents in a 4-0 win.

The visitors were in a rampant mood, scoring three times in the opening 24 minutes to put the tie to bed with all of them coming within a blitzing six-minute period.

Alexandre Lacazette scored twice, while Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe were also on the scoresheet to set up a semi-final tie against Unai Emery's Villarreal.