‘They always get the players they want’ – Man City told Erling Haaland’s 10-year deal means nothing if Real Madrid pursue another ‘Galactico’ as Norway legend admits he ‘wouldn’t be surprised’ at transfer

Manchester City have been warned that Erling Haaland’s 10-year contract will count for nothing if Real Madrid want to make him another ‘Galactico’.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Premier League champions City won the race for Haaland’s signature in 2022 when prising the prolific Norwegian striker away from Borussia Dortmund. His debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium delivered 52 goals and Treble glory.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

Haaland has continued to break records with City, taking his goal tally to 118 through 134 appearances, and has committed to a stunning deal that is intended to keep him in Manchester until 2034. Questions have, however, already been asked of whether said terms will be honoured.

DID YOU KNOW?

La Liga giants Real have been heavily linked with Haaland in the past and are famed for their ‘Galactico’ recruitment model. If Vinicius Junior were to leave Santiago Bernabeu, amid talk of record-breaking offers being readied in the Saudi Pro League, then Haaland may become of even greater interest to the Blancos.

WHAT JOHN ARNE RIISE SAID

Ex-Norway international and Premier League star John Arne Riise – speaking in association with BetMGM – told GOAL when asked if Haaland is destined to end up in the Spanish capital: “Madrid are Madrid and they always get the players they want somehow.

“Haaland can choose wherever he wants to go because he is brilliant. I was at the Bernabeu and watched the Madrid-City game, the atmosphere and how Madrid are doing… I think it would be a dream for anybody to go there and be a big star.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Haaland play for Madrid at some point in his career. It all depends on the 115 charges and what is going to happen there with City and getting back to fighting for titles again. All of that will impact his decision.”

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WHAT NEXT FOR MAN CITY & ERLING HAALAND?

City are still waiting to discover their fate in a long-running Financial Fair Play saga. Demotion out of the English top-flight has been speculated on, if the Blues are found guilty on multiple counts, and any tumble into the EFL would inevitably lead to Haaland and a number of other leading lights heading for the exits.