LIVE Transfer Talk: Man City eye Haaland deal amid exit fears

Posted Monday, June 03, 2024 by ESPN

Manchester City have made extending Erling Haaland's contract a priority, according to the Sunday Mirror, amid fears of a mass exodus once manager Pep Guardiola leaves the club.

Since arriving in 2016, Guardiola has masterminded an unprecedented era of success at the Etihad, winning 15 major trophies, including six Premier League titles. The 53-year-old, however, has hinted that his time at City is coming to an end, and the club hierarchy is reportedly eager to ensure that the squad remains stable during what will undoubtedly be a transitional period in the dugout.

That's where Haaland comes into play, according to the outlet, as the Norway international has a £175 million clause in his contract that drops every summer until his deal expires in 2027. With Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona making no secret of their desire to sign the 23-year-old one day, City are keen to agree new terms with the striker and remove the worrisome clause.

Despite spending some time on the sidelines with a muscle injury, Haaland cantered to the Premier League Golden Boot this season, scoring 27 goals in 31 appearances.