Pep Guardiola has refused to comment on speculation heavily linking Borussia Dortmund sensation Erling Haaland with a summer move to Manchester City.
The Norwegian goal fiend has risen to meteoric prominence over the past few seasons and a move to one of Europe’s ultimate superclubs seemed an inevitability, one that could materialise this summer, with the current Premier League champions said to be close on securing a deal for him.
It is believed the Etihad club have won the race to sign Haaland over Real Madrid and will offer the Mino Raiola client £500,000 a week, with his current £63m release clause certainly not a stumbling block for a club with pockets as deep as City.
Kwiff betting offer: Bet £10 Get £20
Eligible readers interested in the Kwiff betting offer can follow THIS LINK or click the image below
New Customers Only. The Promotion operates as a £20 Surprise Bet when you place a bet of at least £10 on any market with odds greater than or equal to 1.50 as your first bet. The Promotion runs from 29/12/2021 12:00 (UTC) until 31/12/2022 12:00 (UTC) (the “Promotional Period”). 18+ only. Be Gamble Aware.
Despite the story gaining considerable traction over the past few days, City boss Guardiola has remained coy on the links. “No answer to your question,” the Catalan coach responded when quizzed on the subject. “I have other things in my head rather than what is going to happen next season.”
Guardiola was speaking ahead of his side’s crunch midweek clash against Brighton in the Premier League, with three points simply non-negotiable for the reigning English champions after Liverpool stole a march on them in the title race on Tuesday night, thumping Man Utd 4-0 at Anfield.
For much of the campaign, City have played without a recognised striker, instead deploying various ‘wide forwards’ in the false 9 role when Gabriel Jesus has been unavailable or unfancied, with the predicament stemming from Guardiola’s failed attempt to lure Harry Kane to the North West last summer.
Haaland would more than solve that problem position for City, and then some. Born in Leeds, Haaland would also be following in the footsteps of his father, Alf-Inge, should he complete a move to City, after the former defender turned out for them in the early noughties.
READ MORE:
- Sky Vegas welcome offer (50 free spins and no deposit required)
- Live stream today’s football
- Football accumulator tips