Premier League leaders Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their interest in highly-rated Norwegian teenager Eirik Granaas ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Fredrikstad FK midfielder has attracted widespread attention for his outstanding performances in Norway’s top flight.
The 16-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Scandinavian football, earning praise for his technical quality, vision, creativity and eye for goal.
His rapid rise has drawn comparisons with Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard.
According to the Sun, Arsenal have been closely monitoring Granaas’ development for over a year and are now considering a move to bring him to London.
However, the Gunners are expected to face stiff competition from RB Leipzig, a club renowned for nurturing young players.
Leipzig could hold a significant advantage in the race due to post-Brexit regulations that restrict English clubs from signing foreign players under 18.
Granaas has already etched his name into Norwegian football history.
He made his league debut at just 15 years and 90 days, becoming the youngest player to feature in the country’s top division, surpassing Odegaard’s long-standing record.
The Arsenal captain had previously set the benchmark when he debuted for Stromsgodset at 15 years and 118 days in April 2014.
Arsenal’s interest in Granaas follows a broader strategic shift within the club’s academy structure.
Following the departure of former technical director James Ellis in January, the club has intensified efforts to recruit elite youth prospects globally.
This renewed focus is driven by the emergence of youngsters such as Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Max Dowman into the first team in recent seasons.