Manchester City and Barcelona to face-off in an enthralling battle for Haaland

Manchester City is reportedly looking to go all out for claiming the prized signature of Erling Haaland in the summer window. The Skyblues are expected to face an uphill task in doing so with Barcelona being considered as one of the potential destinations for the Norwegian. This comes as per Spanish outlet Sport.

Erling Haaland, 21, has been the most devastating striker in the continent, ever since joining the Schwarz Gelben in 2020. The Dortmund number nine has staggering numbers to someone of his age with 76 goals and 14 assists from 75 appearances for the German based club.

The former Salzburg man has been on the radar of many elite European clubs and the negotiations are expected to kick start after June 30, when his release clause of £75 million commences.

Manchester City is said to be the front-runner for the 21-year-old after their Harry Kane saga ended up without being fruitful in the previous summer window. The defending champions do have the financial muscle to pull off this deal.

Kane seems to be a vital cog in Antonio Conte’s side and is considered as one of the untouchables of the Spurs lineup, the source adds. This makes more sense in City going all out for the Norwegian Goal machine who could be a perfect fit for Guardiola’s style of play.

On the flip side, Barcelona is putting some giant strides towards signing Erling Haaland with the camaraderie between Mino Raiola and Barcelona president, Joan Laporta coming to the fore, says the Sport.

Manchester City though has several other premium strikers on their radar with the likes of Dusan Vlahovic (Fiorentina), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), and Darwin Nunez (SL Benfica) shortlisted, just in case the deal doesn’t pay dividends to the blues.

Guardiola’s men have set the stage on fire with their gameplay and are currently in the midst of a nine-match unbeaten streak. They are comfortably placed at the top of the charts with 47 points from 19 league fixtures. All these without a proper number nine in their ranks is what makes it that much more special.

If the reigning champions do acquire the services of Haaland in the future, they are going to be an absolute force to reckon. But, the Catalan giants though aren’t going to give up without a fight as the Haaland-saga is anticipated to go down to the wire.

So, where do you think Haaland is going to end up, Manchester City or FC Barcelona?

Let us know.