Edu vindicated in James Maddison transfer decision after Brendan Rodgers' scathing criticism

The summer transfer window saw Arsenal chase several attacking midfielders.

By the end of August, the Gunners had spent more than any other Premier League club and set a new record for spending compared to their previous investments.

Within the approximate £150million layout was the acquisition of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid. At first, the deal looked unlikely as the Spanish giants were impressed by the Norwegian’s six-month loan spell in north London.

However, Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival coincided with a change of heart from the LaLiga champions and Odegaard eventually signed for Arsenal in a deal reported to be worth in the region of £30 million.

One of the other names Arsenal considered was James Maddison. The Leicester City midfielder was subject to a player-plus-cash proposal that was ultimately unsuccessful, understands.

It was evident that the Foxes would only accept a serious financial offer, similar to those that had prised the likes of Harry Maguire, Ben Chilwell and Riyad Mahrez away from the King Power Stadium.

Any deal could have been more than double what Odegaard eventually cost the Gunners.

Odegaard has flourished this season, establishing himself as one of the first names in Mikel Arteta’s side. He has gained consistent praise for his leadership both on and off the field and his improvement in front of goal.

Thought of more as a creator, Odegaard has four goals in addition to as many assists this term. Three of the goals came in consecutive matches against Manchester United, Everton and Southampton.

"The ceiling for him, I don't know where it is, with the talent that he has, the desire that he has, how much he wants to always improve and get better. We've got a tremendous player there,” said Arteta