Barcelona icon Rivaldo has claimed that Manchester City have only announced the signing of Erling Haaland in an effort to dampen down criticism.
The Premier League leaders announced on Tuesday afternoon that they have agreed a deal in principle with Borussia Dortmund to sign the Norwegian hotshot. City are yet to agree personal terms with Haaland himself but the striker is expected to arrive at the Etihad Stadium ahead of next season.
Rivaldo has been left sceptical over the decision to announce the deal so soon - the Brazilian claiming that it is an attempt to dampen down criticism following their Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid.