According to the reports from the Metro, Manchester City have now joined the race to sign Erling Braut Haaland. The Norwegian striker has attracted interest from Manchester United as well, and he has been continuously linked with the Red side of the Manchester. Now it seems that even the reigning Premier League champions want to have some action over the striker.
It is also being said that City had hosted Haaland senior in last month’s 5-1 win against Atalanta. City are said to be fearful of losing Gabriel Jesus who could attract interest from Bayern Munich, and that could push them to make a move for 19-year old Haaland as his replacement.
Reports mention that RB Salzburg value the striker at around £86m. His current form for the Austrian side has been nothing short of breathtaking as the forward already has 26 goals to his name this season. He has also done well in the Champions League which showcases that he isn’t just scoring against weaker opposition in the Austrian league.
With City now joining the race, it will be slightly concerning for Manchester United.
Why might United need a striker and what can Haaland bring to the table?
Ole Gunnar Solskjær went on to part ways with Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku earlier this summer. That has already cost the Red Devils in the first few months of the season as first-choice striker Anthony Martial had to miss some games due to injury. Marcus Rashford’s form has been patchy, to say the least, and the club needs to add some firepower upfront.
Some have compared Haaland to Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Leeds born youngster is known to be a big fan of the Swedish legend. Haaland can score all kind of goals for his side. He is a classical forward, and he can be in the right place at the right time. The striker is also capable of making smart runs between the channels and his hold up play is also decent. The Norwegian international stands in at 6ft3, and he showcases reasonable aerial prowess as well.
Why City’s interest could be a worry for Solskjær?
City are currently one of the best clubs in the world and United have had some tough few years. They are also playing in the Europa League so that will also not help in luring Haaland. The striker has already got a taste of playing in the Champions League with Salzburg so it remains to be seen whether he will really move to Old Trafford if they cannot offer him Champions League football next season. With City joining the race, it is undoubtedly a blow for Solskjær.
