By Kevin Campbell

31st Mar, 2021 | 3:00pm

Arsenal told to 'put the money down' for Odegaard alternative after £26m update - Campbell

Kevin Campbell has urged Arsenal to make a move for Real Betis attacker Nabil Fekir this summer.

The ex-Arsenal and Everton striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, waxed lyrical about the 27-year-old who is “a real handful” with “a wand of a left foot”.

According to Goal, the Gunners are keeping tabs on £26million-valued Fekir as a possible alternative to current loan star Martin Odegaard this summer.

Football Insider understands Arsenal have received encouragement behind the scenes that Odegaard will be allowed to leave Real at the end of the season if Zinedine Zidane remains manager.

The attacking midfielder has excelled at the Emirates since joining on loan in January, and has started five of the last six Premier League games.

However, if the club are unable to retain Odegaard’s services, Campbell suggested Fekir would be the ideal replacement.

“Fekir is a real handful,” he told Football Insider.

“He can score goals, he can create, he is strong, quick and has a wand of a left foot.

“I was hearing he is available for £26million, I’m telling you, put the money down now. He is a top player. £26million? Arsenal, put the money down now because that is a very reasonable price.”  

Fekir has contributed three goals and six assists in 30 appearances this season.

The France international has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract at Real Betis, having joined from Lyon for a fee of £18million in July 2019.

In other news, Arsenal are willing to listen to offers for one of their biggest stars as a cash crisis strikes.