Celtic midfielder Stefan Johansen has revealed that he is trying to persuade Martin Odegaard to join Celtic next season.
Norwegian teen Odegaard has become one of European football’s hottest properties and has spent time travelling to the likes of Real Madrid, Juventus and Liverpool in recent weeks to test out their training facilities ahead of a potential move.
The 15-year-old is off to Ajax and Borussia Dortmund in the new year, but Johansen is desperate for the Stromgodest youngster to make the move to Scotland.
“I’ve talked a lot with Martin,” Johansen told reporters. “We keep in touch and speak on the phone.
“I have told him that Celtic can be a good choice for him. The way we play would suit him. We have the ball a lot and that’s what Martin likes. He wants to be on the ball and creating chances.
“Martin is an amazing talent and I hope he comes to Celtic. The gaffer has shown in Norway that he is very good with young players and he gives them a chance when they deserve it. Martin knows him and myself.
“But it is up to Martin. His father is a good guy who helps him a lot and he’s also very mature in the way he thinks. I’m sure he’ll make the right decision for his career.
“To say that you are going to go and play at Real Madrid and compete against Ronaldo and Bale and those guys … for a 15-year-old that’s going to be difficult.
“He would be unlikely to play right away at a Real Madrid or Barcelona. Of course it would be difficult but, as I said, he needs to choose for himself.”