In a recent edition of Marca’s El Corrillo radio show, renowned journalist Melchor Miralles has revealed that Real Madrid have already begun conversations with Borussia Dortmund over the possibility of signing Erling Haaland at the end of this campaign. It is believed that Zinedine Zidane is looking to resolve his goal-scoring problems following the 2-1 defeat against Manchester City in the Champions League. The French manager has identified the Norwegian striker as a potential candidate to lead the charge at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium next season (via Marca).
Haaland’s Spectacular Goal-Scoring Record This Season
Haaland has enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Red Bull Salzburg before joining Dortmund last month. He has continued to flourish in the Bundesliga after making a seamless transition to Lucien Favre’s first-team. The talented teenager was instrumental behind his side’s 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last 16 tie earlier this month.
The Norwegian frontman has banged in 40 goals in 30 matches this season which goes to highlight his prolific nature in front of goal. He is also not shy about finding an incisive pass in the final third and also has eight assists to show for his efforts.
Haaland is averaging 2.7 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in the German top-flight (stats via whoscored). The numbers do not lie and only sheds more light on his attacking efficiency up top. The 19-year-old has already earned two senior caps for the Norwegian national side but is yet to open his goal-scoring account for his nation. However, with a crucial UEFA Euro qualifier coming up against Serbia next month, Haaland might get another call-up from Lars Lagerbäck, especially when he is playing at such a high level in Germany.
What Will The Norwegian Youngster Add To Zidane’s Side?
Haaland has the pace and the power to beat his marker in the final third and excels at getting shots in on the target. The fact that he is attempting more than two shots per game in the Bundesliga explains why he has scored so many goals since arriving at Dortmund during the January transfer window.
Zidane has found it challenging to come up with a winning formula at Madrid this season. Both Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard have flattered to deceive with their performances this term, so it makes a lot of sense for Los Blancos to focus on strengthening their attacking options next summer. Haaland is an up-and-coming striker who has the potential to be a generational talent if he can continue to improve his overall game with each season.
Now that Karim Benzema is edging towards the twilight years of his playing career, it has become a necessity for Madrid to acquire a new forward this summer. Haaland’s addition will not only address Zidane’s goal-scoring concerns but will also give him the option to be more flexible with his formation and tactics next season. The Norwegian striker will bring a lot of goals and assists to the Spanish capital, but there is a concern over whether he would be replicate similar goal-scoring numbers in the coming years.
Why Haaland Could Be A Dream Signing For The Galacticos
With all the growing hype surrounding his potential, it is easy to forget that Haaland is still quite young. Thus one can argue if the forward is just a ‘one-season wonder’ or whether he has what it takes to maintain his excellent form over a prolonged period. Either way, he will be a dream signing for Madrid if they can manage to lure him to the Bernabeu ahead of the new season.
