Erling Haaland: Key development gives Man City ‘increased hope’ of new contract to prevent massive Real Madrid transfer

Manchester City have become even more confident about tying Erling Haaland down to a new contract in the last few days as they look to ward Real Madrid off the deadly striker, according to a trusted source.

Haaland arrived at the Etihad last summer after City matched his £51.5million release clause at Borussia Dortmund. The Norway international has gone on to have a stunning debut campaign under Pep Guardiola, registering 52 goals and nine assists in 52 appearances.

Haaland has broken a host of records during his incredible season and has also been named the Premier League’s Player of the Season, as well as the division’s Young Player of the Season.

He has helped City achieve an impressive double as they added the FA Cup to their Premier League crown on Saturday by beating rivals Manchester United.

The attacker will now be focused on aiding City in their pursuit of a first ever Champions League trophy. The Citizens will come up against Inter Milan on Saturday and have the chance to emulate Man Utd’s treble-winning side of 1999.

But Haaland will also be thinking about his future. He is a target for Real Madrid, who are in the market for a new striker after Karim Benzema’s exit from the Bernabeu was confirmed.

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Haaland going to the Spanish capital would likely see him reunite with former Dortmund team-mate Jude Bellingham. The Englishman is expected to swap Dortmund for Real this summer, with the two clubs in advanced negotiations over his move.

Various outlets have reported that Haaland wants to play for the La Liga giants one day. But City have just been given a major boost as they try to keep the 22-year-old for the long run.

Man City growing in confidence over Erling Haaland deal

As per The Telegraph, City’s huge treble bid has handed club officials ‘increased hope’ of Haaland extending his contract there.

Haaland’s current terms run until summer 2027 and are worth around £400,000 a week. But these terms look set to be extended, with City also planning to offer Haaland a pay rise to reward him for his excellent performances this season.

The Telegraph write that there is a ‘strong chance’ Haaland’s new contract will be agreed. It will make it even harder for Real to lure the Leeds-born ace away from City.

Haaland will not be the only City player to receive a contract offer so soon after his arrival at the club. Goalkeeper Ederson and forward Julian Alvarez both signed new deals in Manchester around 12 months after joining.

Much has been made of Haaland’s potential buyout clause and whether it is linked to Guardiola staying at City. The player’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, recently commented on the situation during an interview with Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

“The mystery of this story is nice because nobody knows where it is, like a treasure chest,” she said.

While Haaland appears destined to represent Real one day, it seems City are growing in confidence about keeping him for some of his most important years.

The goalscorer will play a crucial role as Guardiola looks to guide City from their Champions League woes to multiple winners of the competition.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain are eyeing a raid on City after landing Marco Asensio on a free transfer from Real.