Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland is one of the brightest stars in world football. During every transfer window, some of Europe’s biggest teams are linked to the Norwegian goal machine.
Rumours about Haaland’s next destination seem to drag on and on, with team after team being linked to him.
Now, it appears that Real Madrid may have gained an advantage in the transfer battle for Erling Haaland.
The race for Erling Haaland
Europe’s elite are battling for the signature of the Dortmund forward. His current contract has a release clause of 75 million euros, a cut-price fee for one of the most talented young players in the world.
Manchester City appeared to be in pole position, as per Football Insider, to get Haaland, after some groundwork by his father. Alf-Inge Haaland played for the Citizens in the 2000s, so he already has a connection to the North West of England.
Haaland senior has reportedly told his son that a move to the Etihad would be the best choice. Of course, the allure of playing under Pep Guardiola for one of Europe’s best teams also helps.
Other potential suitors include Paris Saint-Germain. They view Haaland as a possible replacement for Kylian Mbappe if the Frenchman moves to Real Madrid.
Read: Why Man United may be concerned by PSG’s Kylian Mbappe ‘Plan B’
Finally, a transfer race for a big star almost always involves Real Madrid. According to the Daily Star, the Spanish side’s interest waned in Haaland as they wanted to pursue Mbappe. Despite this claim, Real are still heavily linked to the Norwegian.
Reports suggest that Florentino Perez wants to get both young superstars, forging a new era of Galacticos.
A secret meeting may have given Real Madrid the advantage too.
How Real could seal the Haaland deal
According to reports from Spanish outlet Marca, Adidas have made a move to try and sign Erling Haaland. The German company want to be his boot sponsor, as his deal with Nike is expiring this summer.
Adidas attempted to woo Haaland by arranging a private meeting with him and brand ambassador Zinedine Zidane.
They also enlisted the help of former Swansea City hero Michu, who was Haaland’s idol growing up.
The decision of Adidas to meet with Haaland, with Zidane present, has fuelled speculation about a move to the Spanish capital.
The German company are Real Madrid’s kit manufacturer, with the Spanish club being one of their most significant sponsorship assets. Having a world-renowned talent in Haaland playing for a club wearing your brand is great for exposure.
Zinedine Zidane could also have boosted Real Madrid’s chances. As a former Galactico himself, who was also at the centre of a transfer saga to Real, he may have been able to influence Haaland.
The combination of a Real Madrid icon and their kit brand may be too much for Erling Haaland to resist. Being a Galactico is a dream for many footballers, and Haaland would make it a reality if he does sign for the Spanish giants.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
