Martin Odegaard could make his return against Brentford after missing the last three games because of concussion… as Arsenal target Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz to bolster their midfield options 

• Martin Odegaard missed Arsenal’s last three matches with concussion 
• The Norwegian will sit out the upcoming international break  
• It’s a three-team title race… Toney could lead Arsenal to glory: It’s All Kicking Off 

Martin Odegaard is expected to be available for Arsenal’s clash against Brentford after missing Arsenal’s previous three matches with concussion and hip issues.

With Thomas Partey a long-term absentee, head coach Mikel Arteta – who is interested in Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz – has been short of midfield options in recent weeks.

As Mail Sport revealed yesterday, Odegaard has been suffering with a secret bout of concussion, directly causing him to miss the games against Newcastle and Sevilla, after a ball was smashed into his face in the final training session ahead of the trip to St James’ Park.

Odegaard has remained in London and missed Norway’s forthcoming international fixtures to focus on his recovery from the blow and the lingering hip problem.

Martin Odegaard is expected to be available for Arsenal’s clash against Brentford

The Norwegian has missed Arsenal’s last three matches because of concussion

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But the Gunners captain is expected return to full fitness directly after the international break to provide a huge boost to Arteta.

The injury concerns to Odegaard and Partey have focussed Arsenal’s mind with regards to reinforcing their midfield options this January.

Due to limited finances following their near £200million spend in the summer, Arsenal are considering turning their attention from signing a centre-forward to a midfielder – with Luiz a firm target.

Douglas Luiz is a target for Arsenal, as the Gunners look to bolster their midfield options 

Arteta has a long-term interest in Luiz, having tried to sign the Brazil international last season.

Luiz has since signed a new contract at Villa and become a key figure under Unai Emery. However, the lure of playing Champions League football and joining a club expected to challenge for the Premier League title could tempt Luiz.

Villa would likely put a sky-high price on Luiz, which would be a stumbling block to Arsenal given their restricted January budget.

IT’S ALL KICKING OFF! 

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