Thursday, January 22, 2015

FOOTBALL: Real Madrid Land Teenage Norway Star


Martin Odegaard could soon be gracing the hallowed Bernabeu turf

Real Madrid have struck a deal to sign Norway's teenage sensation Martin Odegaard from Stromsgodset.

PA reports the 16-year-old midfielder is one of Europe's brightest prospects, having already represented his country three times after becoming the youngest player to play in the Norwegian Tippeligaen last year.

Several big clubs - including Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester United and Ajax - were thought to be chasing Odegaard, but it appears Real have won the race.

"Real Madrid CF and Stromsgodset Fotball have reached an agreement for the transfer of Martin Odegaard," said a statement on the Spanish giants' official website.

"After undergoing a medical exam, the player will hold a press conference with the director of institutional relations, Emilio Butragueno, today 22 January at 1:30pm CET in the Ciudad Real Madrid press room."

Odegaard scored five goals in 23 games for Stromsgodset to help the team finish fourth in the Tippeligaen last year.

Last October, Odegaard became the youngest player in the history of the European Championship when he came on as a substitute in Norway's 2-1 victory over Bulgaria in a Euro 2016 qualifier.
Real are looking to reinforce their midfield line with Germany international Sami Khedira expected to leave Madrid in the summer having turned down a contract extension.

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