Manchester United have beaten Chelsea in the race to sign teenage midfielder John Obi Mikel from Norwegian top-flight outfit Lyn Oslo. The 18-year-old Nigerian had looked set for a move to Chelsea after having trials at Stamford Bridge.
But United, who gave him a trial in 2003, have stepped in to sign the player, who only made his first-team debut for Lyn last week.
"It's totally fantastic to come to a club like Manchester United," he said.
"Not many players my age get that chance."
Lyn officials refused to disclose the transfer sum, but general manager Morgan Andersen said it was "overall the biggest transfer ever within Norwegian football".
"It's totally fantastic to come to a great club like Manchester United. Not many players my age get that chance," the Nigerian said.
MMIX
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Match of the Day - Post-match interviews