Barcelona have reportedly set their sights on Erling Haaland as their priority summer signing for 2025. Rumours of a rift between Haaland and City manager Pep Guardiola are fuelling speculation of a blockbuster move, with the striker allegedly unsettled by City’s poor form and off-field uncertainty.
DETAILS:
Manchester City are in uncharted territory, enduring their worst run in decades with just one win in 11 matches. The downturn in results has reportedly caused unrest within the squad, particularly for their talismanic striker Erling Haaland.
According to Spanish journalist Jota Jordi, Barcelona president Joan Laporta and his team are in regular contact with Haaland’s entourage, led by agent Rafaela Pimienta.
Speaking on El Chiringuito, Jordi revealed that Barcelona have already made the decision to pursue Haaland as their long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
Key Factors Driving the Move:
- Lewandowski’s Future: Concerns over Lewandowski’s fitness and age have prompted doubts about his ability to perform across a full campaign.
- City’s Decline: Barcelona reportedly believe now is the perfect time to capitalise on City’s poor form and internal struggles.
- Haaland’s Frustration: Reports suggest Haaland is ‘disappointed’ with City’s performances and has grown increasingly frustrated with Guardiola’s management style.
City, however, hold the upper hand contractually. Haaland is tied to the club until 2027, meaning any potential exit would demand a world-record transfer fee, surpassing Neymar’s £200m move to PSG in 2017.
RECALL:
Since arriving at City in 2022, Haaland has been a relentless goal machine, scoring 108 goals in 121 appearances. His record-breaking performances helped Guardiola’s side to a historic Treble last season.
However, this season tells a different story:
- City’s dressing room morale has reportedly hit a low.
- Off-field pressure continues to mount with ongoing Financial Fair Play investigations.
Barcelona see an opportunity to pounce, as they prepare for a squad rebuild under new manager Hansi Flick. Lewandowski, despite his brilliance, is no longer viewed as the club’s long-term solution.
QUOTES:
Jota Jordi on Barcelona’s ambitions:
“The decision is made… Barcelona believe it is the right time to get Haaland out of Manchester City.”
Reports in Spain, via Football365, paint a damning picture of Haaland’s relationship with Guardiola:
“He can’t stand Guardiola any longer and is seriously considering saying goodbye to City next summer.”
CITATIONS:
El Chiringuito: Jota Jordi’s comments on Barcelona’s transfer decision.
Football365: Reports of Haaland’s dissatisfaction and alleged rift with Guardiola.
TEAMtalk: Insight into City’s stance on Haaland’s future and their unwillingness to sell.
KEEP IN MIND:
Manchester City are still in a strong position with Haaland contracted until 2027, making any transfer extremely costly.
Barcelona’s financial troubles could prove a significant obstacle to pulling off such a deal.
Guardiola is reportedly set to receive a £200m January budget to address City’s issues, which may include moves for players like Joshua Kimmich.
The looming question remains: If Haaland leaves and Guardiola departs in 2025, who steps in to rebuild Manchester City’s empire?
