Arsenal set to battle rivals Tottenham for 23-year-old Premier League midfielder: Reports
Arch-rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly both interested in signing Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey. The midfielder could also potentially leave Villa Park, with the club looking to extract maximum value for him.
Ramsey came through Aston Villa's academy and made his senior debut in 2020. He's been a key player for the side over the years, playing in different positions in midfield. He's made 131 appearances for the club, scoring 14 goals and providing 13 assists.
Ramsey's current contract with Villa expires in 2027. As per GiveMeSport, Aston Villa could be open to selling him next summer. This is because his value will start declining post that and they could lose him for free in 2027. They value him at £50 million for a potential transfer next summer.
Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle United are among the clubs interested in signing Ramsey. Spurs were also linked with him in the summer but a move didn't materialize. Apart from being an excellent player, the Englishman also offers a homegrown option, which is vital for the clubs, especially in European competitions.
Arsenal and Tottenham are likely to offer the 23-year-old consistent European football. Aston Villa's recent rise under Unai Emery could also potentially see him want to stay at the club if they keep progressing. However, he missed over 30 games last season due to injuries which could be a cause for concern.
Norway manager opens up on Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard's injury
Norway manager Stale Solbakken has provided an update on Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard's injury. The midfielder suffered an ankle injury in Norway's 2-1 win over Austria in September and has missed seven games for the Gunners since.
In the ongoing international break, Solbakken was asked about Odegaard's recovery and he answered (via 90min):
"There is great progress in relation to pain and injury, but he is a long way from playing matches.
"I don't think anyone knows that [when he will be back], and I don't think he knows it himself either."
Odegaard has been the main creative outlet for the Gunners since arriving from Real Madrid, initially on loan in January 2021. His move was made permanent that summer and he has made 156 appearances for the north London side, registering 35 goals and 25 assists.
In his absence, Leandro Trossard has often played in midfield for Arsenal with Emile Smith Rowe and Fabio Vieira (loan) both leaving in the summer.