Kristian Malt Arnstad insists his ‘dream’ is to secure a move to the Premier League after Burnley failed in a £4.5million bid to reunite Vincent Kompany with the Anderlecht star.
Speaking to VG in his homeland of Norway during the international break in September, the 20-year-old described himself as an “aggressive and relentless” midfielder.
Someone who can be just as effective out of possession as with the ball at his feet.
Given what Vincent Kompany demands of his midfielders – Josh Cullen and Josh Brownhill are prime examples – it’s easy to see how Arnstad could fit in at Turf Moor;
The Burnley target has already proven he can succeed under the former Manchester City captain at his current employer.
Kompany praised Arnstad’s maturity and willingness to improve during their time together at Anderlecht.
However, a proposed meeting did not materialize in the last week of the summer semester; Burnley failed with three bids, including one for around £4.5m.
Burnley could return for Kristian Malt Arnstad
“They didn’t agree (on compensation). But of course it’s nice to have some interest,” smiles the Norway O21 international.
“I had (Kompany) the first two years at Anderlecht. We have a good relationship and you learn a lot when you have him. He is an absolutely fantastic coach.
You notice that he is also under Pep (Guardiola) and other coaches for a long time.
“He took a lot there that he was trying to teach the rest of us. He has a lot of respect for everyone around him. Just save what you can do.
It remains to be seen if Burnley stopped in January, where they stopped watching Arnstad. The Oslo-born youngster certainly isn’t ruling out a lot that would make him the youngest member of the Jupiler League to arrive at Turf Moor.
“Of course it’s nice. It’s a dream to play in the Premier League one day,” Arnstad said. “Now there was no deal, so I’m just trying to focus on where I am now.”