How text from Martin Odegaard convinced Christian Norgaard to sign for Arsenal

Norgaard, who captained Brentford last season, has penned a two-year deal at the Emirates Stadium, which also includes an option for a third year. His arrival marks the club’s third acquisition of the summer transfer window, following the earlier additions of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfield anchor Martin Zubimendi.

Norgaard has credited current Arsenal skipper Odegaard and David Raya for giving him insight into life at the Emirates and shared how the two played a vital role in helping him envision his next step.

“They both spoke so highly of [the club],” Norgaard revealed to Arsenal's club media. “They keep describing this as a welcome to the family feeling. I think it's really nice when a player like Martin speaks highly of not only the players, not only the coaches, but also the whole staff around the club and the guys in the media department.

“There are just so many people working in this organisation and he spoke very highly of all of them, so I’m looking forward to meeting each and every one.”

Although best known for his defensive discipline, Norgaard’s final season at Brentford saw a notable uptick in attacking contribution. He registered five goals and provided four assists across 34 Premier League appearances, a personal best in terms of offensive output. Mikel Arteta has long sought a player capable of bringing calm and control to the base of midfield, and Norgaard appears to fit that description well, especially as Thomas Partey and Jorginho have left the club.

Norgaard leaves Brentford with a legacy of consistency and commitment. Since arriving from Fiorentina in 2018, the Dane became a cornerstone of Thomas Frank’s side. He played an instrumental role in Brentford’s rise to the Premier League and their continued survival in the top flight. In total, he made 196 appearances for the west London club and captained them throughout the 2024–25 campaign.

Arsenal returned to training at their London Colney base on July 15 for pre-season. Norgaard is expected to link up with his new teammates immediately and could join full team sessions as early as tomorrow. The Gunners are due to depart for their pre-season tour of Asia on July 19, with high-profile friendlies against AC Milan, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur already confirmed.