Former Arsenal defender Lauren believes Martin Odegaard is the one player that the club cannot afford to lose.
There are reports that Arsenal want to tie down the Danish playmaker to a new contract after he has grown into the role as captain under Mikel Arteta.
Under his leadership the team fell just short of winning the Premier League under the pressure of the challenge from Manchester City, who ran out winners.
However, players such as Declan Rice and Kai Havertz arrived in the summer, and Lauren thinks that Odegaard remains a key part of the team, to such an extent that they must ensure he signs fresh terms.
He told safebettingsites.com: “It's hugely important to tie down Martin Odegaard to a new Arsenal deal. Arsenal need their best players tied down to contracts to ensure strong competition remains.
"I was talking to him during pre-season, and apart from his qualities, his focus really shines through, his determination to succeed, which will spread to his team-mates.
"Arsenal need to keep their best player in the squad in order to achieve big things over the coming years.
“He’s a brilliant talent, he’s got many qualities,” he continued. “His ambition… You saw against Man United, he was always asking for the ball, even when they were 1-0 down, he was getting into positions where he can create something – he can give the last pass, he can shoot from range.
"In the second half he was getting back to defend to help the full-backs and the midfield in a defensive role. He has all the attributes you need to succeed at the top level.”