Manchester City are said to be 'moderately optimistic' that they will complete a deal for Erling Haaland as they look to beat Real Madrid to the frontman's signature.
The Norwegian has become one of the hottest prospects in Europe after his unbelievable form with both RB Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund. City are among the frontrunners to sign the 21-year-old but they face stiff competition from Los Blancos.
It was recently reported that Haaland, son of former Blues defender Alf-Inge, had rejected the first £500,000-per-week proposal from Pep Guardiola's side. But Goal report that Guardiola is using his 'powers of persuasion' to convince the Dortmund forward to move to City and that he remains optimistic.
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It has been said that both Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain are trying to convince Haaland of a 'great sports project'. The report adds that City could discover Haaland's final decision as soon as April.
Meanwhile, a price for Raheem Sterling has reportedly been set after the Daily Star (via HITC) revealed City will listen to offers of around £80m. The City attacker was heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad prior to the January transfer window but has since played his way back into Guardiola's plans.
Arsenal and Barcelona have been previously linked with a move for the England international. However, various reports have suggested that the 27-year-old is currently in negotiations over a contract extension.
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