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Martin Odegaard

Real Madrid's teenage sensation Martin Odegaard has confirmed that he had offers from the Premier League before joining the Spanish capital club, reports the Daily Mail.

The ten-time European Champions beat a host of clubs around the globe, including Liverpool and the two Manchester teams, to procure the signature of the highly coveted teenager.

“I visited Liverpool, the two Manchester teams and they were all very nice but my choice was Real Madrid and I am very happy with that,” said Odegaard.

The attacking midfielder, who has been handed the No.10 jersey at Madrid's Castilla, believes Real is the best club for him to develop as a footballer and reach the lofty heights expected of him.

“Madrid is very good. It is the best place if you want to become a better footballer."

"I have been given the No 10 shirt [at RM Castilla] and it is a big responsibility having that number but it is the one that I like and I am just going to enjoy it," he added.

Despite rumours linking him with loan move out of the club this summer, Odegaard decided against it and now focuses on developing as a player everyday.

“I have spoken a little bit with Rafa Benitez but not too much at the minute. My focus is to become a better footballer and develop every day," he said.

Although the Norwegian affirmed that his aim is to learn the finer traits of an attacking midfielder under the watchful eyes of club legend Zinedine Zidane, who is head coach at Real's Castilla, he did not rule out a move to England in the future.

“Maybe it will happen in the future and the time will show but right now I am very happy where I am with my club and the situation there,” he confessed.

“Zidane is a great Coach, a great man to learn from. He was one of the best in the world and it is a privilege to work with him.”


The 16-year-old football protege is one of the most talented players of his age group and made his long awaited debut for Real Madrid's first team in the penultimate fixture of last season, coming on as a substitute in the 58th minute for Cristiano Ronaldo in the 7-3 home win against Getafe.

Martin Odegaard during a training session for Norway [Photo Credits: Telegraph]

According to Daily Express, Roma have also joined the race to sign Norwegian starlet and Manchester United target Martin Odegaard.

Manchester United are believed to be leading the race for the youngster's signature but will face significant competition from the Italian club as well as the likes of Ajax, Liverpool and Real Madrid.

The 15-year-old plays his club football for the Tippeligaen side Stromsgodset made his first-team appearance earlier this year. He has developed a very good reputation for himself over recent months and is being tracked by several big European clubs. He has already scored 3 goals in 18 appearances fto put the club within two-points of a European qualifying position.

Odegaard made history in August when he made his senior debut during a friendly game for Norway against United Arab Emirates. He is now the youngest player ever to represent Norway at international level.

The Norwegian is also called 'the next Messi' by various media.

Odegaard is a Liverpool supporter and Brendan Rodgers would surely be delighted to hear that. This could make the player opt to make the switch to Anfield, if offered.