Erling Haaland’s move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City is now thought to be a ‘done deal’, according to reliable transfer journalist David Ornstein.
The Norweigian had been expected to complete a move away from the German club this summer, and it was Pep Guardiola’s side who emerged as frontrunners for his signature in April, looking to complete their striker hunt following a failed bid for Harry Kane last summer.
And, with a release clause at £68m, it is clear to see why Haaland is an attractive prospect, having netted 21 times in 23 Bundesliga appearances during an injury-hit campaign.
As per Ornstein, ‘the Bundesliga side are believed to anticipate notification from City in the days ahead that they will pay the fee required to activate the release clause in Haaland’s contract.’
This will end what was set up to be one of the transfer sagas of the summer before the transfer window has even begun, and deal a blow to the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain, all of whom were thought to have been interested in the prolific youngster.
Where will he fit in at Manchester City?
Unlike current options on the blue side of Manchester, Haaland is only suited to playing through the middle as a traditional no.9, and is almost certain to be deployed there. He will offer Pep Guardiola another dimension in attack, with the lack of a focal point and physical presence having hurt City at points this season, despite sitting atop the Premier League table.
