Barcelona president Joan Laporta might have ruled out their pursuit of Erling Haaland this summer. Previously, it was rumoured that Barcelona were planning a €300 million move for the striker, which includes his salary and his agent fee.
Laporta has met Mino Raiola, Haaland’s agent, on multiple occasions, but that hasn’t helped their pursuit of the player. And now, it seems like Manchester City could be the ones to swoop in and sign him when the summer transfer window opens.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta sends cryptic Erling Haaland transfer message
Speaking to Esport3 (h/t Fabrizio Romano), Joan Laporta said: “Even if we had the best financial situation in the world, we wouldn’t do some deals for the sake of the club. We won’t complete any deal that puts the club at any further risk.”
Barcelona’s financial struggles have been well documented this past year. But despite their troubles, they have been able to add attacking talent such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Adama Traore and Ferran Torres in the winter transfer window.
They are also expecting defensive reinforcements in the summer, with Andreas Christensen, Cesar Azpilicueta and Noussair Mazraoui expected to join the club in the summer as free agents.
A transfer for Erling Haaland would set back Barcelona a large amount up front, with a €75 million release clause. And if Joan Laporta’s comments are to be believed, then the Blaugrana have effectively taken themselves out of the race for the Borussia Dortmund star.