Martin Odegaard signs for Real Madrid

Martin Odegaard

Real Madrid have reached an agreement with Norwegian club Stromsgodset to sign 16-year-old Norwegian forward Martin Odegaard. Odegaard, one of the most sought-after teenagers in world football, will take his medical before being presented to the media at a news conference on Thursday, the club said.

The 10-times Champions League winners did not disclose the financial details of the deal, but it is expected that the Spanish club will pay Stromsgodset a fee around €3 million.

Odegaard became the youngest player to ever play for Norway, beating a 105-year-old record held by Tormod Kjellsen, when he debuted for them in August at just 15 years and 253 days old. He played the entire match in his debut against United Arab Emirates, which finished in a 0-0 draw.

He had been linked with many of Europe's top clubs, including 5 times Champions League winners Liverpool – the club he grew up supporting. Odegaard took trials with various clubs across Europe, including heavyweights like Bayern Munich, before deciding on Real Madrid. He came to prominence last year when he became the youngest player to appear and score in the Norwegian Premier League.

He scored 5 goals and gave 7 assists to his teammates in his short spell of just 23 appearances with the first team at Stromsgodset. He is likened to Lionel Messi in the style of play and if he reaches the potential everyone claims he has, then Real Madrid have definitely sealed the bargain of the century.

He is expected to begin his Real Madrid career with the B team, Castilla, coached by France legend Zinedine Zidane. The Castilla competes in the third division of Spanish football and it would be a good test for Odegaard at such a tender age.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has previously described him as ‘a kid with talent and personality’.