John Shittu (r) is facing smuggling charges in Norway

Nigerian football agent John Shittu has been fined for violating Norwegian foreign currency laws.

Shittu represents Nigerian teenage sensation John Mikel Obi, who plays for Lyn Oslo.

Obi is currently at the centre of a transfer row between English clubs Manchester United and Chelsea.

The agent, who could face a smuggling charge, was stopped for a routine check at Oslo's Gardermoen Airport on Tuesday.

He had the equivalent of nearly US$39,000 in cash, ten times the amount which is allowed into Norway without it being declared.

Customs official Paul Ask said Shittu had US$35,590 cash in an envelope, as well as various amounts in Euros, Norwegian Kroner and other currencies.

Shittu paid a US$1,538 fine on the spot.

Customs officials also confiscated a watch worth an estimated US$13,850 because it exceeded the limit for duty-free imports.

Ask said Shittu has been reported to the police for smuggling and could face a further fine.

John Mikel Obi recently resumed playing duties with his Norwegian club after a four-month absence.