Barcelona eye new Erling Haaland move after Man City twist - ‘It’s different to last time’
Barcelona retain an interest in Erling Haaland but will still find it tough to prise him away from Man City in the coming transfer windows, sources have told Football Insider.
Haaland has continued to prove that his ability knows no bounds as he looks to fire City to another title this season.
The burly Norwegian raised his profile even further in the summer with a spectacular World Cup campaign as he netted seven goals in five appearances.
Every club in the world would love to sign him, but his contract at the Etihad runs until 2034.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Barcelona are among the sides seriously interested in Haaland's services and could launch a huge offer next year.
Hansi Flick is a huge admirer of his talents and is keen to add an out-and-out striker to his squad to keep Barca ahead of Real Madrid.
Barcelona could advance in Erling Haaland move despite Man City's stance
Haaland's current contract includes a release clause that will only be activated at the end of the 2028-29 campaign.
The 26-year-old has bagged 168 goals in 2014 appearances for City so far, including six strikes in as many outings since the start of this season.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "(Haaland's situation) is slightly different now, because he doesn't have any active release clauses in that contract when he signed the new deal until 2034.
"He's been on Barca's wish list for a long time. He'd be a dream signing for the Catalan club as well as they would look to bring in a new number nine to take over from Robert Lewandowski, but getting him out of Manchester City is going to be a totally different prospect due to his contract length, and obviously his price tag as well."
Man City 'concerned' about Phil Foden as poor form continues
Haaland and Foden have proven to be a deadly double act at times for City, but the Stockport-born playmaker has struggled for form in the last 12 months.
He has continued to look like a shell of his former self at the start of this campaign, failing to score in his first six appearances and being left out of the England squad once again for the upcoming international break.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that City chiefs are concerned about Foden's form and have doubts over his long-term future at the club.
He has remained in the starting eleven because Enzo Maresca wants to help him rediscover his previous form, but that patience may not continue for the rest of the campaign.