Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has confirmed that star striker Erling Haaland is a target for Real Madrid.

In an interview with German publication Bild, Hans-Joachim Watzke spoke about all things Borussia Dortmund. The Bundesliga heavyweights’ CEO has also confirmed Real Madrid’s interest in the 21-year-old goal machine while hoping he stays put at the Signal Iduna Park beyond next summer’s transfer window.

Erling Haaland has established himself as one of the best players in the game since his breakout season in the 2019/20 campaign. And he has taken his game to the next level since joining Borussia Dortmund from Red Bull Salzburg in January 2020.

To date, the 21-year-old has racked up 76 goals and 20 assists in 75 appearances for the Bundesliga giants, evolving into a goal machine in the process. His exploits have not gone unnoticed either, with some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Real Madrid, keen on signing him. And now, Hans-Joachim Watzke has confirmed Real Madrid’s interest in the Norwegian striker.

The Borussia Dortmund CEO said, “No matter where I go, everyone speaks to you about Erling Haaland. All I know is a guarantee that Real Madrid are very interested in him. I could name 25 others now. But I know for sure [that Real Madrid are interested].”

“It can be that he leaves, but it can also be that he stays. A few days ago I had a very good conversation with Mino Raiola. When we are in a target corridor, the conversations are always quite friendly. And that phone call was quite friendly. We will certainly have another meeting in the next few weeks.”

“The overall development of Haaland is in the foreground. Just like with Lewandowski, I would like to be proud of Erling at some point if he wins the Champions League. Personally, I think it’s good for him if he stays in the Bundesliga a little longer.”

The interest from Real Madrid is understandable, considering Karim Benzema is well into his thirties. While the Frenchman has been going from strength to strength in the last few years, it is imperative to lay down a succession plan for him, thereby making Haaland a viable target.

According to recent reports, Haaland’s preferred destination would be Real Madrid, even though other clubs like Barcelona, Manchester United and Manchester City attempt to prise him away from Borussia Dortmund. However, one thing that appears to be certain is that the 21-year-old goal machine is likely to leave the Bundesliga giants next summer when a release clause in his contract comes into effect.

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