Real Madrid are still interested in signing Erling Haaland after learning of the Manchester City striker’s 2024 release clause, according to reports in Spain.
Haaland has been on Madrid’s radar for some time, following an excellent breakthrough at RB Salzburg and subsequent success at Borussia Dortmund. The 23-year-old joined City for £51million in 2022 and his incredible goal record has reported only accelerated interest from the Spanish capital.
The La Liga giants are thought to prefer a move for Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe but it is claimed some of the club’s hierarchy would prefer to sign an out-and-out No.9, rather than a winger that could impact Vinicius Jr’s development. development. And according to Spanish outlet AS (via Sport Witness), that could see them return for Haaland.
The report adds that Madrid has learned of a supposed release clause in the Norwegian’s contract, believed to become active in 2024, which is worth in excess of €200million (£171.6m). That value is said to decrease in each window beyond 2024, until it’s expiry in 2027.
Elsewhere, Football Transfers reports that representatives of Boca Juniors youngster Valentin Barco were present at City’s training ground this week as a deal progresses.
City have been linked with a move for the 19-year-old in recent weeks, following an excellent campaign in Argentina with Boca in which they reached the Copa Libertadores final. Pep Guardiola is thought to be keen on strengthening the left side of his team in January.
Barco is said to be keen on the move, which could cost City €10million (£8.6m) due to a release clause in his current contract. The teenager has been likened to Oleksandr Zinchenko due to his ability to invert into midfield comfortably.