Manchester United
Premier League • England
‘We are back!’ – Haaland warning sent to Man Utd, Man City by Barcelona president
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has sent Manchester United and Manchester City a warning over Erling Haaland.
The prolific striker is likely to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer, once his release clause activates. It sits at between £63-68million. United and City are two of the clubs aiming to land the 21-year-old.
The Red Devils will need a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. Edinson Cavani, meanwhile, is 34 and could retire in the next few years.
City are yet to replace Sergio Aguero, who left for Barcelona in July before hanging up his boots due to a heart condition. Gabriel Jesus was expected to step up to the plate but now wants to operate out wide.
Barcelona have brought in Ferran Torres from the Citizens to become Aguero’s successor. The Spaniard has moved to the Nou Camp for £46.3m, with the deal funded by a loan.
At Torres’ unveiling, Laporta was asked about the potential for more impressive captures. Haaland’s name was thrown into the mix.
Laporta responded (via The Guardian): “We’re working to build a top team. Everything is possible if we do things well, and I’m sure we will. Top players are open to joining Barca. We’re definitely recovering our status.”
The chief added: “Everybody in the world should get ready, as we are back as big players in the market. Barca are back!”
Haaland and Mbappe want Madrid
Both young stars are interested in a move to The Bernabeu.
Laporta seems confident his team can win the race for Haaland, as well as other top-class players.
United and City will need to put up a fight to sign the Norwegian hitman. Barcelona’s rivals Real Madrid plan to bring in both Haaland and Kylian Mbappe this summer.
A recent report from Spanish outlet AS claims Haaland has made a decision on his future. He allegedly told a group of fans: “I will play here, in Spain.”
Man Utd decision to impact Liverpool
Meanwhile, the agent of a Liverpool star claims a United transfer decision will impact him.
Ralf Rangnick’s side recently recalled Axel Tuanzebe from his loan spell at Aston Villa. The defender is now edging closer to a Napoli move, according to BBC Sport.
Liverpool’s Nat Phillips has been on Napoli’s radar, but his agent Colin Murdock says the vacancy is now filled.
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“Napoli have taken Axel Tuanzebe, our former client, on loan, so I think they have finished their operations as regards to the role of central defender. Therefore, I don’t think we need further comments on Nat Phillips,” he said.
Tuanzebe has made 37 appearances for United in all competitions. He has also had three temporary spells at Villa since 2018.
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