Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge says that he always felt it would be tough to snap up Martin Odegaard given such fierce competition for his signature. However, he rejected the idea money was the deciding factor for the Norwegian.
Odegaard recently brought a lengthy transfer saga, which had seen him spend time at a number of Europe's elite clubs, to a close by signing for Real Madrid – and in the process disappointed a whole host of sides, including Manchester United and Liverpool.
It has been claimed the Norwegian midfielder will earn €2.25m per year at the Bernabeu, while at present he will train with the first team but play for the club's second string, Real Madrid Castilla.
But Rummenigge feels that Odegaard's decision was not just down to money and played down talk Bayern Munich were confident of bagging his signature, emphasising fierce opposition.
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The CEO told TZ: "It was clear that it wouldn't be easy.
"Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Barcelona and several clubs in Germany were also interested.
"I can only congratulate Real Madrid and I wish the boy all the best.
"He came here with his father, with integrity. He was here for three days, spoke with our coach [Pep Guardiola], with Matthias Sammer [sporting director] and with me.
"He just wanted to understand how each club worked.
"Ultimately, maybe Madrid was a bit more attractive to him than here. I do not feel it was a money issue."
It remains to be seen when Odegaard will make his senior debut for Real Madrid, but the 16-year-old has had his talent talked up by coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The Norwegian became the youngest ever player to turn out in a European Championship qualifier last year when he played against Bulgaria.
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