Blow for Barcelona as Haaland nears new improved Manchester City deal
Barcelona’s long-term plan to sign Erling Haaland as the successor of forward Robert Lewandowski has suffered a setback.
The Manchester City’s striker, Haaland, is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract.
The deal, expected to run for four-and-a-half years, will not only increase Haaland’s salary but also raise his release clause from €150m to €200m, according to reports from Sport.
The Norwegian goal machine has been a dream target for Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who hoped the club’s financial recovery might enable a pursuit of Haaland in the future.
Manchester City star Erling Haaland – Getty image
However, the new deal would make an already challenging transfer even more difficult for the Catalan giants.
Haaland, currently one of the most prolific strikers in the world, has been in sensational form since joining Manchester City.
His presence at the Etihad Stadium has seen City dominate domestically and in Europe, making him an indispensable asset.
While Barcelona might still keep slim hopes of signing Haaland, the club may need to look elsewhere for their next star striker.
Given their ongoing financial constraints, alternatives to the Norwegian superstar are likely to be explored more seriously as Lewandowski edges closer to the end of his career.
