Norwegian signed for La Liga giants yesterday after months of speculation.
After months of speculation and rumour, the future of Norwegian, teenage sensation Martin Odegaard has finally been revealed with the 16 year old wonderkid signing for Real Madrid.
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The deal ends Odegaard’s seemingly round the world tour in search of the appropriate club with which to develop his immense, but raw, talents.
But whilst you may know the name Odegaard, do you actually know anything abouting the youngster?
Here are five things you need to know about one of the most exciting, young players in Europe today:
1) Origins
Odegaard was born in Norway to a Christian family and his father was former player Hans Erik Odegaard.
He started at his first club, Stromsgodset, in 2012 at the tender age of 13 and progressed through the ranks, making the first team at 15.
2) Father
Odegaard followed in his father’s footsteps – who was also a professional player though not as successful. Hans Erik Odegaard was also a midfielder for Stromsgodset before moving to Sandefjord. He is now assistant manager at Norwegian club Mjondalen Idrettsforening.
3) Idols
Odegaard grew up a Liverpool fan and said during his time searching for a club that playing for the Reds had always been his dream, but that he would not let it affect his decision.
And it certainly didn’t. Despite visiting Melwood and training with the Liverpool first team and Brendan Rodgers, Odegaard shied away from an Anfield move.
Odegaard has also said Lionel Messi is his icon and the player he most aspires to play like.
4) International career
Odegaard became the youngest ever player to represent Norway, beating a 104 year old record set by Tormod Kjellsen, when he started against the United Arab Emirates in an international friendly at the age of just 15 years and 253 days.
5) Real Madrid
Despite playing just four senior league games for Stromsgodset and only being 15, over 30 clubs are said to have enquired about Odegaard in a bid to sign him.
But the speculation on his future finally ended last night, signing for Spanish giants and reigning European giants Real Madrid with reports in Norway suggesting the fee could be as high as €4 million and with add-ons may reach as high as €8/8.5m.