Journalists reveals Odegaard turned down Liverpool despite Gerrard charm offensive

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard had a chance to join Liverpool, his boyhood club, but ultimately opted for a different path.

Back in 2014, Martin Odegaard was one of the most sought-after prodigies in European football. At just 15 years and 300 days old, he became the youngest player to feature in a European Qualifier when he played against Bulgaria.

This remarkable feat caught the attention of top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich, all vying for the youngster’s signature. Arsenal also tried to lure him to London at the time.

Graham Hunter, a Spain-based football journalist, recalled the hype surrounding Odegaard in an interview with FourFourTwo. He noted that the Norwegian and Christian Pulisic were the standout talents at youth tournaments at the time.

ALSO READ: BIG MATCH PREVIEW: Liverpool vs Tottenham: Analysis, prediction

According to Hunter, Martin Odegaard grew up as a massive Liverpool fan, which prompted the club to pull out all the stops to try to sign him. Liverpool even enlisted their then-captain Steven Gerrard to show Odegaard around the Melwood training complex.

“He actually grew up as a huge Liverpool fan,” Hunter said. “Liverpool pushed the boat out to try to get him. They got Steven Gerrard to show him around the Melwood training complex, as it was at the time.

ALSO READ: Pichichi Trophy race heats up as Benzema, Lewandowski battle it out

“They put a big effort into convincing him that this was the right environment, playing on how long he’d been a supporter.”

However, despite his admiration for the Reds, Odegaard decided against joining them.

“Liverpool have always been my dream club,” Odegaard said in 2014. “But I will not let this affect my decision when I choose a new club.”

He eventually signed for Real Madrid in January 2015.

After a period of stagnation at Real Madrid, Odegaard’s career found a new lease of life at Arsenal.

He has become a key figure for the Gunners, even being named captain of the team, with his sights set on Premier League glory.