UK: 18+ USA: 21+ | Begambleaware.org | T&Cs apply | Play Responsibly
Erling Haaland is rapidly becoming one of the best players in world football. He boasts an incredible record at club and international level.
The striker has an astonishing 80 goals in 79 appearances for Borussia Dortmund. His pace, strength, and sublime finishing has caught the attention of Europe’s leading clubs.
His phenomenal feats began as a teenager, when he hit 20 goals in 50 games for Molde FK. He then netted 29 goals in 27 games at RB Salzburg. The forward then made the step up to the Bundesliga, but that may not last very long.
Both his and his club’s form may be the reasons behind a potential exit. Haaland, despite recent injuries, remains one of the hottest properties in the world. In stark contrast, Dortmund are certainly not having their most promising season.
The club sit eight points behind rivals Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. They have also exited European competition, losing out to Rangers in the Europa League.
Who will win the race to sign Erling Haaland?
According to Fabrizio Romano, three clubs remain very interested in the striker. Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona are all battling it out for his signature.
All three clubs certainly have huge pull and more than enough finances, so the final decision looks set to lie with Haaland himself.
Spanish giants Real Madrid are perhaps leading the way. They are currently top of La Liga, but importantly are seeking a successor for veteran striker Karim Benzema. Haaland seems the perfect fit.
The club have signed countless major names over the years. But their reported pursuit of PSG star Kylian Mbappe may just impact any move for Haaland. Whether or not Madrid can afford both hot prospects remains to be seen.
But given their recent revival, it would be foolish to rule out Barcelona’s interest. The club have turned things around under Xavi. This is thanks to a talented group of youngsters, but also due to recent arrivals at the club.
Both Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Adama Traore have immediately hit the ground running. The Catalan outfit have a history of attracting some of the world’s best players, and Haaland may just be the next.
Can Man City land his signature?
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has seen his attack weakened this season with the loss of Sergio Aguero. Ferran Torres also left the club for La Liga. And Guardiola’s subsequent pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane seemingly didn’t go to plan.
Despite having Gabriel Jesus at his disposal, the manager has often opted not to play a striker. The likes of Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling and Jack Grealish have played centrally for City this season.
But Guardiola certainly wouldn’t be foolish enough to turn down the chance to sign Haaland. With City’s attacking stars, the striker would undoubtedly have a field day in front of goal. The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ilkay Gundogan all have what it takes to link up with the forward expertly.
Subscribe to Punditfeed on Google News for all the latest updates from the world of sports!
