Borussia Dortmund’s Sebastian Kehl has suggested that Erling Haaland’s future lies in Germany amid strong links with Chelsea.
The Norwegian striker has constantly been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge throughout the summer, with various reports suggesting that he is the Blues number one target for the transfer window.
More recently, it has been suggested that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has intervened in the situation and has released funds amounting to £150m in order to get a deal secured as soon as possible.
Despite that, Dortmund’s stance on Haaland’s future has never changed and Kehl, who is set to take over from current sporting director Michael Zorc, has suggested that the striker is not concerned with a move elsewhere.
Talking to Sky Germany, he said: "There is nothing new on this matter. He is in our plans. Erling will return this week and he will be very hungry. He wants to play football, he feels comfortable with us and he will be eager to score many goals."
The comments come not long after Zorc himself commented on Haaland’s future at the Westfalenstadion. Intriguingly, his opinion is identical to that of Kehl.
Speaking to German outlet Bild, he said: "Nothing has changed. We plan with Erling for the new season."
Dortmund’s consistent stance will be a huge blow to Chelsea as they attempt to secure a deal for the Norwegian hitman.
He still has a contract until 2024 but his release clause is thought to half next summer.
Just in case a move doesn’t come to fruition this summer, the Blues have been linked with a few alternatives including Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez and Villarreal’s Spanish striker Gerard Moreno.
