Håkon Evjen has impressed for Norwegian side FK Bodø/Glimt (yes that’s the name of the club) scoring 10 goals and registering four assists in 20 appearances in 2019.
The 19-year-old has been deployed on the right wing and his impressive displays for Bodø/Glimt caught the attention of Manchester City.
VG in Norway claims the Premier League winners were keen on acquiring his services, but he rejected an opportunity to join the Etihad club and has agreed to join AZ Alkmaar.
Two days ago, Bodø/Glimt confirmed the agreement between the two sides on their official website and the teenager will move to the Netherlands in January 2020.
Evjen has expressed his delight after Pep Guardiola’s side showed interest in him, but admitted a move to AZ was the “right step” for his career.
While further discussing Manchester City’s interest, the youngster’s agent Morten Wivestad told VG why his client turned down the opportunity to join the English champions.
“There has been great interest in Håkon from various clubs and we have always been looking for the right club and the right time,” Wivestad said.
“City wanted him, but not for their first team We felt that we would not have had control over where he would go on loan, and that is why we believe that AZ is a much safer and more correct choice.”
When questioned how specific was City’s interest, Evjen’s representative responded: “They had a clear ambition for him to become a City player. They thought he had potential for it, but it wouldn’t be for their first team now. That’s why we chose AZ.”
“We must think short-term and long-term at the same time. AZ and the Dutch league are a perfect level for Håkon now. If he performs there, he will have the opportunity to play in major leagues gradually.
“Håkon has his feet on the ground and is thinking of development. Myself, Håkon and his family have had a very good cooperation and agreed on the road ahead.”
VG claims Evjen’s sale will see Bodø/Glimt cash in €2.5m and the overall cost of the transfer could increase further. They add it’s a club record sale for Bodø/Glimt.
