Arsenal 'preparing to step up Emiliano Buendia pursuit'

Arsenal are reportedly preparing to step up their interest in Norwich City midfielder Emiliano Buendia.

The 24-year-old played a key role in the Canaries securing an immediate return to the Premier League, scoring 15 goals and providing 17 assists in 39 Championship outings.

The Gunners were linked with the Argentine during the January transfer window, but he ultimately stayed with Daniel Farke's side to help them back into England's top flight.

According to Goal, Mikel Arteta's side are planning to step up their pursuit of the South American as they look for alternatives to Martin Odegaard.

The report claims that Real Madrid are expected to give Odegaard the opportunity to impress next term, which could lead to Arsenal entering the transfer market for a new attacking midfielder.

Norwich are thought to value Buendia in the region of £40m and are under no immediate pressure to sell, with the former Real Madrid youngster still having more than three years left to run on his current deal.