Erling Haaland says his five "girlfriends" are key to his sudden success - but he's not the Lothario this would suggest.
The Norwegian wonderkid was in fact referring to the five footballs he took home for each of his hat-tricks, admitting he even sleeps with them.
Haaland has enjoyed a remarkable rise since bursting onto the scene at Red Bull Salzburg, where he has netted 22 times in just 16 appearances this season.
His performances have caught the eye of top clubs in Europe including Barcelona, Real Madrid and the Premier League's very own Manchester United.
It seems likely that he will join RB Leipzig in the summer unless one of the aforementioned table a bid in the region of £80million.
Haaland has been tight-lipped over his future in recent months, but has spoken out about his love for the game and his pride in netting hat-tricks.
"I sleep with the five balls that I have for each hat-trick I scored. I lie in bed and I feel good with them," Haaland told Dagbladet.
"I look at them every day. They are my girlfriends."
Haaland is becoming an increasing important part of the Norway national team.
On his international aims, he added: "The objective is two victories. If we still can't qualify, winning is important for the FIFA ranking.
"There will also be two important tests in the Nations League play-offs in March."
