The Oslo club Vålerenga, who are in a deep crisis far down the table, will on Sunday host HamKam at Intility Arena, a loss there they could end up down in the qualifying place in the Eliteserien. – That match will be with Mathias Grundetjern who switches from Start to Vålerenga on an immediate transfer.
The goal-scoring midfielder, who can occupy several positions, explains in Vålerenga’s own channels: “It’s incredibly nice to be here. I remembered when I was here with Start last year and looked up at the Klan that stood and rocked. Then I thought that this is a place I would like to play, and when I understood that there was a possibility that I could come to Vålerenga, then it clicked, he smiles and continues:
- I come with power and punch, and am a loyal player who puts the team first, and who does what he can to win football matches. I’m the type of person who can take on several roles on the pitch, but would rather play up front.”
The 24-year-old had a contract with Start until the end of the year, but from July 1 could negotiate freely with other clubs.
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He agreed with Vålerenga early on personal terms, and now the clubs have also found a solution to the transfer fee.
VIF’s sports director Joacim Jonsson confirmed earlier in July to Fædrelandsvennen that Grundetjern would become a Vålerenga player from January 1, but that the club hoped to reach an agreement as early as this summer.
Now it has succeeded, and Grundetjern can join the capital team earlier than expected. He has signed a contract until 2028.
Grundetjern has accounted for ten goals in twelve games in the OBOS league this season. He came to Start from Flekkerøy in 2021.
– Mathias has had a fantastic season, and is a player we have followed closely. He brings enormous energy and will give us an extra dimension,” says Jonsson.
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