Just in: Dortmund executives believe Barcelona’s top target will go to Man City

The race for Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Erling Haaland seems to be coming to an end after a long-overdrawn saga. Expected to leave Bundesliga this summer, Haaland carries a €75 million release clause, but the total cost to bring him in could cost nearly €300 million.

Real Madrid and Manchester City are the only two teams left gunning for his signature, with the forme prioritising Kylian Mbappe. Barcelona are third in this two-horse, with their economic proposal a shadow of the other two clubs.

In fact, according to Christian Falk, Dortmund executives believe that Haaland has agreed to join Man City in the summer.

It is not particularly surprising, though. City have by far the best financial muscle of the three and can meet Haaland’s €30 million annual salary. They also have a superb sporting plan in action spearheaded by none other than Pep Guardiola.

The Sky Blues have already won the Premier League thrice under the Spanish manager in five seasons, and have already reached the Champions League final, only losing out 1-0 to Chelsea.

City have been trying to sign a striker for two seasons now. Last season, their pursuit of Harry Kane was an open secret, but their attention has shifted to Haaland now.

As for Barcelona, they seem to have accepted defeat, already. The Catalan media has been reporting several alternatives that the Catalan management is considering, with Robert Lewandowski and Mohamed Salah linked strongly.

Despite that, Xavi must continue to build with young players like Pedri, Gavi, and Ferran Torres at the forefront. Goals have been coming in recently, so it could be time to use that Haaland money to plug other positions.