Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez will make no decision on the future of young midfielder Martin Odegaard until after his side take on Valerenga in a friendly in Norway on 9th August.
Benitez took Odegaard on Real Madrid's summer tour of Australia and China to assess him, but will not make a firm decision on whether he will remain with the first team squad into the 2015/16 season until after the Valerenga game, in which he is expected to be the main attraction, according to Spanish daily AS.
Real Madrid have been considering loaning Odegaard out for the season in a bid to ensure he receives regular first team football at a higher level than the club's second string, Real Madrid Castilla, can offer.
Several sides have been watching developments closely, with Celtic, along with clubs in France, Germany and Spain, linked with wanting Odegaard on loan.
Should Real Madrid opt to loan Odegaard out, Celtic are considered strong contenders for his signature.
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The 16-year-old played under current Celtic manager Ronny Deila at former club Stromsgodset and retains a strong relationship with his fellow Norwegian.
A move to Celtic could also potentially land Odegaard with the chance to play in the Champions League group stage, if the Bhoys can qualify.
