Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is reportedly playing a key role in convincing Rosenborg wonderkid Sverre Nypan to join the Gunners despite interest from Manchester United, according to Givemesport.
The 18-year-old midfielder has been one of the standout young talents in European football this season, delivering 8 goals and 10 assists in 33 appearances for Rosenborg.
His impressive form has caught the attention of both Arsenal and Manchester United, but the Gunners currently hold the advantage.
Nypan has been in contact with Odegaard to learn more about life at Arsenal and the club’s pathway to the first team.
The Arsenal skipper is said to be actively persuading his fellow countryman to choose a move to North London.
United, meanwhile, are keen but have asked Nypan to wait until the summer before making any decision, potentially handing Arsenal a free run at his signature.
With Rosenborg valuing the midfielder at just £10 million, he could prove to be a bargain signing.
Nypan, who operates primarily as a central midfielder, has gained a reputation for his creativity, goal scoring instinct, and defensive work rate.
He averages 2 tackles, 4 recoveries, and 5 duels won per game in the league, underlining his all-round qualities, according to Sofascore.com.
The youngster has been likened to Odegaard in his playing style, and a move to Arsenal could see him develop as the captain’s understudy.
With Ethan Nwaneri also emerging as a future option for the right wing, Nypan could slot in as a long-term midfield asset for Mikel Arteta’s side.
With Manchester United unlikely to spend this winter, the door is open for Arsenal to seal a cut-price deal for one of Norway’s brightest talents.