“I have to learn and deal with it”- 17-year-old wonderkid opens up on transfer interest from Manchester United and Arsenal
Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly targeting Rosenborg's 17-year-old wonderkid Sverre Halseth Nypan. In a recent interview, the midfielder insisted that he won't get carried away amidst interest from the Premier League clubs and Bayer Leverkusen.
Nypan is a versatile player, having been deployed in central midfield, as a number 10, and also as a center forward. The Norway under 18s star is widely considered to be one of the most exciting prospects in Europe.
According to multiple reports, Nypan is being chased by clubs across Europe with Arsenal and Manchester United leading the race for the midfielder. TV2 reported that Red Devils' and Bayer Leverkusen's scouts were present in Rosenborg's 1-1 draw with Lillestrom on Sunday, September 15.
Tribal Football reported Nypan saying that he was unaware of the scouts being present at the game to watch him play.
"The only thing I care about is getting back to the shape I was in before the injury," the 17-year-old said.
"I didn't know about them [the scouts] so I don't really think much about it. This is how it will always be, so there is nothing to worry about. I have to learn and deal with it, and I feel that I do," he added.
The 17-year-old has been likened to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard by pundits. The youngster, who spent a large part of his formative years at Norwegian side Nardo, was signed by Rosenborg in 2020.
In January 2022, he signed his first professional contract with the club. His progression took the coaches by surprise and he was handed his first team debut just a few months later in April.
At the age of just 15 years and 322 days, he became the club's youngest-ever player, beating John Hou Saeter's record. The promising youngster has so far made 51 appearances for the Norweigan side and recorded double digit goals and assists already.
Arsenal target Nypan is a Manchester United fan
Nypan had earlier revealed his club allegiances, handing a boost to Manchester United. The 17-year-old called playing for the club "a dream" but maintained that he has to keep his feet on the ground.
"It would obviously be a dream come true to play for Manchester United. I’m aware United has shown some interest," he revealed on the United Norway Podcast.
Nypan's revelation about his club allegiances would be a blow to Arsenal in their bid to sign the 'next Odegaard'.
Nypan, however, is calm about the links to the club he supports and said he is focused on his current club.
"I’m quite adamant that I don’t want to open that door yet. I want to focus on Rosenborg, and not think too far ahead," the level-headed youngster added.
Manchester United have reportedly been tracking the youngster for over a year now and are laying the groundwork in bringing him to Old Trafford.