Manchester City are stepping up efforts to secure Erling Haaland on a record-breaking new contract amid ongoing interest from Real Madrid.
With his current deal running until June 2027, City aim to keep the prolific striker at the Etihad through his prime years. Negotiations appear to be heading in the right direction, signaling a significant victory for the reigning Premier League champions.
City Confident in Securing Haaland
Recent reports indicate that Manchester City have held positive discussions with Haaland’s representatives and are “increasingly confident” of reaching an agreement. The proposed deal would make Haaland the highest-paid player in Premier League history, with a staggering weekly salary of £500,000 on the table.
The club is strategically aligning these talks with discussions involving Pep Guardiola, who recently signed a one-year extension with an option for an additional year. Guardiola’s commitment to the club has reportedly boosted City’s belief that Haaland will extend his stay as well, securing the long-term partnership between manager and talisman.
The Real Madrid Threat
Real Madrid’s interest in Haaland remains a persistent backdrop to these negotiations. The Spanish giants have long been linked with the Norwegian superstar, with earlier rumors suggesting that Haaland might demand a release clause of £150 million (€179.5m / $188.7m) to facilitate a future move to Madrid. However, recent updates suggest City and Haaland are close to finding a middle ground, with no mention of such a clause in the latest reports.
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Madrid’s Backup Plan
While City focus on retaining Haaland, Real Madrid are preparing for the possibility of missing out on their top target. Reports from Spain reveal that Madrid have turned their attention to Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish striker currently enjoying a prolific campaign with Sporting CP.
Gyökeres has been sensational this season, scoring 24 goals in 19 matches, and is seen as a viable alternative to Haaland. Madrid scouts are reportedly impressed with his skill set and believe he could thrive at the Bernabéu. The striker is expected to be available for around €75 million (£62.7m / $78.8m) at the end of the season.
A Tactical Loan Offer
In a potential move to sweeten the deal, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is rumored to be considering offering Sporting CP the highly-rated Endrick on loan. This proposal could help Madrid secure Gyökeres and maintain their plans for a dominant attacking setup.
Haaland’s Record-Breaking Form
Since arriving at Manchester City, Haaland has consistently delivered jaw-dropping performances, cementing his status as one of the best forwards in the world. His goal-scoring prowess has been instrumental in City’s success, and the club is determined to ensure his future remains tied to the Etihad.
Pep’s Vision and Haaland’s Prime
The synergy between Guardiola’s tactical genius and Haaland’s clinical finishing has become a cornerstone of City’s dominance. Guardiola’s contract extension has provided a layer of stability to the club’s long-term vision, and tying Haaland down to new terms further solidifies their plans for continued supremacy.
Madrid’s Dream Attack Faces Delay
Madrid’s ambitions of fielding a dream front three featuring Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior appear to be on hold. If Haaland commits his future to City, Madrid will have to pivot their focus to alternative options like Gyökeres.
City Unfazed by Youth Prospect Buy-Back
Elsewhere, City have reportedly declined the chance to re-sign Liam Delap, a former youth prospect who has impressed at Ipswich Town this season. While a buy-back clause exists, City are not pursuing Delap, leaving clubs like Chelsea with a clearer path to sign the young forward.
The Weekend’s Title Challenge
Amid these transfer developments, City face a pivotal clash against league leaders Liverpool at Anfield. Guardiola’s men will be under pressure to secure a win to stay in the title race. Liverpool’s form has drawn praise from pundits, including Roy Keane, who has warned City that another slip-up could severely dent their title hopes.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s efforts to lock Haaland into a new deal could be a decisive moment in their battle to maintain dominance, both domestically and in Europe. With Real Madrid lurking in the background and exploring alternative targets, the stakes are high for all parties involved. The next few weeks could shape the future of some of football’s biggest names.