Manchester City are reportedly now favourites to sign Erling Haaland this summer as the race for the Borussia Dortmund star takes another twist.
Europe’s top clubs look set to battle it out for the 21-year-old during the upcoming transfer window, with his €75million (£63m) release clause coming into effect at the end of the season.
City are among those said to be interested, although they will face plenty of competition, with the likes of Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich also linked.
Haaland had looked at one stage to be leaning towards a move to Spain, with Real looking to be the favourites to land his signature, although the La Liga giants’ pursuit of Kylian Mbappe could prevent them from splashing out on the Norwegian.
And with Barcelona facing their own financial difficulties, the pendulum may well have swung City’s way.
Bild (via the Daily Mail ) claim that Haaland has a desire to play in the Premier League, a revelation that could lead to him signing for the Blues.
City are still looking to land a new striker having missed out on Harry Kane last summer, and Haaland is reportedly set to make a decision on his future next month.
Elsewhere, Pep Guardiola is reportedly looking into the possibility of offering Fernandinho a player-coach role at City next season.
The midfielder sees his deal at the Etihad expire in the summer and his future remains up in the air.
At 36, many expect this to be the Brazilian’s final season with the club, although an alternative solution has now been suggested.
According to Torcedores, Txiki Begiristain has been given Guardiola’s backing to keep Fernandinho, with his leadership qualities thought to be of benefit to the club.
The report claims the midfielder will be offered a new contract ahead of next season, which will include the additional option to take up a coaching role.
Sign up to our City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.
