The rumor mill is at it again, and this time? It’s centered around Erling Haaland and a potential blockbuster move to Barcelona. Now? Spanish journalist Jota Jordi claims Barça president Joan Laporta is pulling the strings to make Haaland their marquee signing next season.
While Manchester City and their talismanic striker have experienced mixed fortunes this season, Haaland’s future at the Etihad is now being questioned. Despite scoring 18 goals—by far City’s best tally—Haaland’s recent form has mirrored City’s overall slump, with Pep Guardiola’s side winning just one of their last 11 matches.
Jordi insists that frequent talks between Laporta and Haaland’s representatives, including super-agent Rafaela Pimenta, have laid the groundwork for the Norwegian’s potential transfer. Laporta allegedly views Haaland as the perfect successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose workload at 35 is becoming a concern.
RECALL:
Haaland arrived at Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 and immediately set the Premier League alight. His jaw-dropping performances helped City clinch a historic treble, cementing his status as one of football’s hottest properties.
However, this season’s struggles have raised questions about City’s long-term trajectory. Is this just a temporary dip, or the end of Guardiola’s dominance in England? While City prioritize renewing Haaland’s contract, Barcelona are reportedly ready to pounce on any signs of discontent.
QUOTES:
Jota Jordi, speaking to El Chiringuito, was clear about Barça’s intentions:
“From what they tell me, the decision is made. Barcelona have activated the plan to make Haaland their center-forward next season.”
He added:
“The situation at Manchester City, the stumbling blocks they face, and Pep Guardiola’s results have made the player predisposed to leave next summer.”
Meanwhile, insiders in the English media suggest the opposite. Haaland reportedly wants to extend his City stay, aiming to spearhead Guardiola’s 2025 rebuild and cement his legacy at the Etihad.
CITATIONS:
This latest development was first reported by Jota Jordi on El Chiringuito and later translated by Sport Witness. The English media, however, remains skeptical about the claims, emphasizing City’s ongoing contract talks with Haaland.
KEEP IN MIND:
City fans shouldn’t lose sleep just yet. While Barcelona’s interest is no secret, Haaland’s current contract runs until 2027. Any move would involve astronomical transfer fees, especially with City holding all the cards financially.
That said, Barça’s ambition is undeniable. As Lewandowski approaches the twilight of his career, Laporta’s vision of pairing Haaland with emerging stars like Lamine Yamal could reshape La Liga’s power dynamic.
For now, Haaland remains the centerpiece of City’s attack, and Guardiola will be counting on him to rediscover his form and silence the noise surrounding his future. Stay tuned—this saga is far from over.
