Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is once again at the heart of transfer gossip after another great season for the Blues in the Premier League
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland celebrates winning the Premier League (Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
While much of the Manchester City talk has revolved around their impending legal battle with the Premier League and the 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges, it is worth mentioning that a summer transfer window is just around the corner.
Pep Guardiola is eyeing alterations to his squad as well as additions. Unsurprisingly, the future of Erling Haaland is on the agenda once again after winning the Golden Boot in the Premier League for the second successive season.
In our latest look at the media headlines, there are some suggestions that the Norwegian could be lining up his next move post-City.
Haaland eyeing City exit
According to Diario AS, Haaland is looking to leave City next summer despite his contract expiring in 2027. The striker’s potential exit could correspond with Guardiola’s exit but the report claims that Real Madrid would not be looking to bring the centre-forward in because they could not afford it.
What MEN Sport says: City fans do not need to worry for the foreseeable future about Haaland’s exit. The Norwegian remains happy with his current position and as a childhood supporter of the Blues, is keen to remain at the club. This is not the first time the Spanish press have attempted to stir up trouble surrounding Haaland but if Real cannot afford to bring him in, it is unlikely any other club would be able to either.
Ortega extends City stay
Second-choice goalkeeper Stefan Ortega has agreed a contract extension. The German shot-stopper has put pen to paper on a deal which will keep him at the club until 2026. Director of football Txiki Begiristain described Ortega as the ‘best No.2 goalkeeper City has ever had’.
What MEN Sport says: Ortega’s new contract will only increase speculation that Ederson will be departing the club in the summer. The Brazilian has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia and should he go, Ortega deserves a shot as No.1. The German played a pivotal role in the title win this season especially with that excellent stop to deny Heung-Min Son in the dying moments against Tottenham Hotspur. It will be interesting to see which ‘keeper is targeted by the Blues should Ederson decide to leave.