Arsenal have been granted a clear path to sign Martin Odegaard on loan from Real Madrid after Real Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil state that his side will not be signing the midfielder.
It had initially looked as if Odegaard would be heading back on loan in La Liga after a successful spell in San Sebastien last year.
The 22-year-old earned good reviews with his performances at the Anoeta Stadium, but has struggled for game time since returning to the Spanish capital.
Reports had suggested that the Norwegian international was hoping to go back to La Real for the second half of the season after requesting a short-term move, but it now looks likely that he will be heading to North London instead.
Real Sociedad boss Imanol says that a move for the midfielder has not been a possibility this time around.
"I don't think that was an option at any time," he told reporters at a press conference.
"Clearly, with everything that he showed [here], what a good player he is, the team would grow even more.
"But at no time has there been any possibility that he would return here."
Odegaard scored seven goals in 36 appearances for Sociedad in the 2019/20 season, helping them to reach the Copa del Rey final - knocking out parent club Real Madrid in the process.
While Arsenal already have Dani Ceballos on loan from Madrid, Premier League rules regarding loans mean they will be allowed to complete a move for Odegaard should a deal be agreed.
Mikel Arteta has already completed one loan signing this week, with the surprise move for Brighton keeper Mat Ryan tied up on Friday morning.
The 28-year-old will provide back-up for Bernd Leno with current No.2 keeper Runar Alex Runarsson expected to head out on a loan of his own to gain some more experience.
