Borussia Dortmund are reportedly demanding any interested clubs in Erling Haaland to pay his release clause by April 30 should they wish to make an effort to sign him. The Norwegian striker has a number of interested parties in his services including, surprisingly Arsenal.
The Gunners have been credited as potential suitors for the former Red Bull Salzburg striker over the past few days amid the club’s need for more attacking options ahead of next season. Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract at the end of the season.
Any move for Haaland is likely to be hugely demanding for Arsenal and sporting director Edu, with the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United having all been credited with an interest in his services at some point in the past. Whilst his next destination is open for debate, it is clear that Dortmund’s stance on any sale is set in stone.
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According to Bild, the German giants have demanded that the striker’s €75m (£63m) release clause be paid by April 30. That only gives the Gunners just six weeks to gather the required funds together and indeed make their intentions known to Dortmund.
Again, whether that triggers Arsenal into action remains to be seen but it is certainly intriguing to note that the north Londoners have the possibility to secure a much-needed striker signing sooner rather than later.
Borussia Dortmund advisor Matthias Sammer has potentially handed a huge blow to the Gunners’ chances of securing Haaland, by hinting that a move to Manchester City could instead be on the cards.
Speaking with Amazon Expert Mario Gomez, he said: “I didn’t hear anything today, yesterday, the day before yesterday. I know City’s behind [him]. The numbers – I had whiplash! I fainted. My wife lifted me up. Accordingly, it is possible.”
Haaland, 21, is currently in the midst of another stunning season for Borussia Dortmund having hit 23 goals in 21 appearances in all competitions. He has just over two years left to run on his current deal.
