Spanish journalist Irene Junquera believes Real Madrid do not need Erling Haaland but may still sign him because of Barcelona.
Real Madrid could sign Erling Haaland to prevent Barcelona from landing him, despite not currently needing the Manchester City striker, according to journalist Irene Junquera via Defensa Central.
Haaland’s future has become increasingly uncertain amid the ongoing situation surrounding Manchester City’s financial charges. The club have been found guilty of 114 of 115 charges by an independent commission and are still waiting to discover their punishment, having already appealed the verdict.
The possibility of relegation, points deductions or restrictions on future transfer activity could have a major impact on City’s squad and potentially lead to Haaland seeking a move away.
“The reality is that neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona needs Erling Haaland,” Junquera said on Rubén Martín’s YouTube channel via Defensa Central before adding, “Real Madrid would have to sell players to sign him, and Barça doesn’t need him because they don’t need a number 9.”
However, she added an intriguing twist to her assessment, suggesting Real Madrid should still consider the move because of Barcelona’s potential interest.
“That said, he’s incredibly talented, and before Barça gets him, it’s better that Real Madrid gets him,” Junquera added.
Real Madrid currently possesses one of the most talented attacks in Europe, with Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe all under contract. Haaland would command a significant salary, while agent commissions would substantially raise the total outlay, meaning Madrid would need to sell an established player to fund such a major investment.
No elite club can ignore Haaland’s record. The Norwegian has been one of the most prolific strikers in world football since joining City from Borussia Dortmund for €60 million in 2022. He has scored 169 goals in 205 appearances for the Premier League giants, underlining why Europe’s biggest clubs continue to monitor his situation.
Haaland has also never hidden his admiration for Real Madrid. The striker has spoken highly of the club and has followed them since childhood, partly because Cristiano Ronaldo, his childhood idol, spent the peak years of his career at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid won’t let Barcelona sign Haaland
Real Madrid therefore faces a strategic paradox. It may have no sporting need for Haaland, but if City’s situation eventually makes him available and Barcelona become serious contenders, the prospect of allowing their biggest rivals to sign him could change the equation.
While the Catalan giants have been exceptional despite not signing an out-and-out Robert Lewandowski replacement, Hansi Flick won’t mind having Haaland at his disposal, given his crazy goal-scoring track record. For now, Haaland remains a Manchester City player. They awaits their punishment decision, which will determine whether Haaland becomes available to Spanish suitors.