Scout Report – Olaus Jair Skarsem
Liverpool are interested in signing promising Norwegian youngster Olaus Jair Skarsem, who plays for Rosenborg, according to reports from the Express.
The 19-year old is widely regarded as one of the most promising youngsters in Norway and has attracted the attention of the Reds’ scouts. The report claims that the Merseysiders have been tracking the midfielder for some time now, and that they have asked for regular updates on his progress and development.
With Liverpool eyeing a move for Skarsem, let’s take a closer look at who the youngster is and what makes him a hot prospect.
Footballing Background
Born in 2 July, 1998, in Norway, Skarsem had stints with Norwegian sides Gemse, Melhus and Astor before he joined the youth side of Rosenborg in 2013, as a 15-year old.
Having risen through the ranks in the youth teams, the 19-year old broke into the senior team last year. The central midfielder made his debut on April 13, 2016, in the Norwegian cup tie against Afjord, in which he scored. Rosenborg went on to win the cup, but that remained Skarsem’s only appearance of the season.
In the 2017 season, Skarsem has been part of the Rosenborg U19 side that is participating in the UEFA Youth League, where he has made four appearances, assisting one goal.
The midfielder has represented the Norway U18 side on 7 occasions so far in his career.
Style Of Play
A central midfielder by trade, the 19-year old can also play as an advanced playmaker behind the striker as well. Skarsem is known for his ability to make darting runs forward from the middle of the park while also having a creative edge to his game.
Good technique and dribbling skills, decent speed, and ability to create chances for his teammates, the 19-year old has demonstrated good traits at a young age. It is not just about the attacking side of the game with the youngster, as he has also shown good work-rate off the ball. He is never shy of performing his defensive duties.
The physical aspect of the game is something that he will need to improve, if he is to make it in England. His range of distribution can get better too.
What Does The Future Hold?
While he may be rated very highly in his homeland, the fact that he has still made just a single first-team appearance, a year after his debut, doesn’t really convey that message. There is definitely some promise and potential in the youngster, but tipping him to become a superstar maybe too premature at this time.
As far as a move to Liverpool is concerned, Jurgen Klopp is known for promoting young talents – case in point being Marko Grujic, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ben Woodburn, Dominic Solanke and Joe Gomez. However, it is difficult to see Skarsem be involved with the first team at Anfield.