Former Denmark international Michael Laudrup has advised much sought after Norwegian starlet Martin Odegaard to move to the less demanding Dutch Eredivisie.
Stromsgodset prospect Odegaard recently turned 16, but is already a senior international with his country, and is wanted by a long list of top clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Southampton and current Dutch champions Ajax.
The hugely promising midfielder trained with Madrid recently, leading to speculation that a four million euro deal had already been agreed, while he has also spent time at Bayern and Liverpool as he and his representatives carefully consider his next step.
Denmark legend Laudrup, who left his home country to join Serie A giants Lazio at the age of 19 during his playing days, told Merkur that he would choose a smaller league if he could, with the comments picked up by Marca.
"I am not sure that the decision [Odegaard] has taken is the correct one," the former Madrid and Barca player said. "He is 16, I cannot imagine that at this moment he could play for Madrid or Bayern. If he were my son, I would just send him to Holland."
Odegaard made history when he became the youngest player ever to appear in a European Championship qualifier at the age of 15 years and 300 days last year when representing Norway.
His price is likely to be around the four million euro mark as he would be able to move on from Stromsgodset on a free transfer at the end of his contract in June, with minimal compensation then being due. With that in mind, it has been reported that it would be better for all parties if a deal was done now.