According to a report by Football London on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard is reportedly using his close relationship with Norwegian teammate Antonio Nusa to persuade the RB Leipzig winger to join the Gunners during the January transfer window.

According to journalist Mark Brus in The Daily Briefing, Ødegaard has been encouraging Nusa to consider a move to the Emirates Stadium. The midfielder knows the 21-year-old through their involvement with Norway's national team and believes the opportunity to play together at club level could appeal to him.

A source revealed the Arsenal captain's involvement, saying: “Martin Odegaard knows Antonio Nusa well from their time with the Norwegian national team. He’s been in his ear about joining him at the Emirates.”

The source further explained that Arsenal hope Ødegaard's influence will encourage Nusa to put pressure on Leipzig to lower their financial demands. The Premier League side have reportedly held discussions with both the winger's representatives and the German club over a potential transfer.

Leipzig are believed to value Nusa at around £60million, but Arsenal are hopeful of negotiating a deal closer to £45million. The Gunners are therefore exploring ways to reach a more affordable agreement before the January transfer window opens.

Nusa recently showcased his attacking ability by scoring in Leipzig's 3-2 Champions League defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday. His performances have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, with Arsenal closely monitoring his situation.

Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to add another attacking option as his team continues competing in multiple competitions. Improving the club's options in the wide areas remains an important consideration as the demands of the season increase.

Arsenal recently recorded a 2-1 victory over Slavia Prague in the Champions League, although they had to withstand considerable pressure in the second half after controlling much of the opening period.

Ødegaard's relationship with Nusa could give Arsenal an advantage in convincing the winger to move to north London. However, reaching an agreement with Leipzig over a reduced transfer fee remains another major obstacle.

For now, Arsenal's interest is still at the discussion stage, with no advanced agreement in place. Whether Leipzig lower their £60million valuation and Nusa pushes for a move could determine the outcome of negotiations ahead of January.