Liverpool Joins Elite Race for Norwegian Prodigy Eirik Granaas After Record-Breaking Debut

Liverpool joins Real Madrid and Arsenal in the hunt for 16-year-old record-breaker Eirik Granaas. Read about the "new Martin Ødegaard" taking Norway by storm.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 30, 2026, 5:36 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

A Record-Breaking Arrival

The European scouting network has turned its collective gaze toward Norway following the meteoric rise of Eirik Granaas. In June 2025, the Fredrikstad FK midfielder etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest player to ever appear in the Eliteserien at just 15 years and 90 days old. By doing so, he surpassed a decade-old record held by current Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard. Since that landmark debut, Granaas has become a regular fixture for his club’s first team, tallying 13 appearances and scoring his first professional goal, prompting major clubs to begin "plotting" potential moves for the teenager.

Liverpool’s Long-Term Recruitment Strategy

Liverpool is currently leading the English interest in the young Norwegian, with scouts reportedly "hugely impressed" by his technical ability and tactical maturity. Under the club’s current recruitment model, the Reds are focused on identifying elite talent before their market value skyrockets. However, due to post-Brexit transfer regulations and FIFA age restrictions, Liverpool and other Premier League suitors will likely have to wait until Granaas turns 18 in 2028 to officially bring him to England. Despite this four-year wait, the club is keen to establish a relationship with the player’s camp early to see off heavy competition.

A Continental Tug-of-War

The battle for the "new Martin Ødegaard" is not limited to Anfield. Arsenal is reportedly keen to pair the youngster with his record-breaking predecessor, while Chelsea and Newcastle United have also registered firm interest. Beyond the Premier League, the race extends to the heavyweights of Europe. Real Madrid, which famously signed Ødegaard at a similar age, is monitoring the situation, alongside German giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. Newcastle, in particular, has signaled its intent to be a "serious contender," viewing Granaas as a cornerstone for its future midfield.