The New York Times and The Times has the story of John Obi Mikel, a promising footballer who ended up on a yout contract for Lyn Oslo. It seems, Norway is exploiting a market niche by becoming a stopover for African players on their way to bigger clubs. By signing them and reselling them to wealthier teams in England, they can make a decent profit on transfer fees. Hat tip: Soccer signing saga.
The Nigeria international expressed his delight at moving from Lyn Oslo to United on April 30, 2005, but changed his mind within a matter of weeks, claiming he had been forced to sign under duress and wanted to play for Chelsea.