Real Madrid have reportedly made contact with the representatives of Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland as the Spanish giants begin to lay the groundwork for a potential 2026 transfer swoop.
The Norwegian striker has been on Real Madrid’s radar since his Borussia Dortmund days, and although the club missed out on signing him in 2022, their interest has never truly faded. Haaland’s phenomenal success in England — breaking scoring records, winning the treble, and becoming the focal point of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City — has only intensified the intrigue from Madrid’s hierarchy.
According to a report from CaughtOffside’s Mark Brus, Real Madrid have initiated preliminary discussions with Haaland’s camp to gauge the feasibility of a future move. While Haaland remains under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2034 and has shown no intention of leaving, Real’s persistence is expected to continue, with the report claiming it would take “crazy money” and the player’s willingness to push for a transfer to make any deal possible.
The Spanish side see Haaland as a potential long-term successor in their forward line — a player who could complete their attacking rebuild following Kylian Mbappé’s move to Madrid and Karim Benzema’s departure to Saudi Arabia. Despite City’s firm stance, Madrid’s ambitions remain clear.
Since joining City in 2022, Haaland has scored over 130 goals, claimed four Premier League Player of the Month awards, and helped the club to unprecedented success, including their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy. His relentless form and physical dominance have made him one of the most valuable assets in world football.
However, rumours of a possible La Liga switch have persisted due to comments from both Haaland’s agent and father, who have spoken positively about the idea of the striker playing in Spain someday. Still, Manchester City insiders maintain that Haaland is “fully focused” on his project at the Etihad and on further developing under Guardiola’s guidance.
With Pep Guardiola’s own contract running until 2027 and Hugo Viana now overseeing the club’s transfer operations, City’s leadership remains calm about Haaland’s future. The player’s professionalism and ambition to “keep improving every day” have reassured the club that he is not agitating for a move.
Nonetheless, Real Madrid’s renewed approach could mark the beginning of a long-term pursuit — one that may test Manchester City’s financial resolve and challenge their ability to retain one of football’s brightest stars in the years ahead.
FAQ
- Is Erling Haaland leaving Manchester City?
There is no indication that Haaland plans to leave. Reports suggest Real Madrid have made contact, but the player remains focused on City.
- When does Haaland’s contract with Manchester City expire?
Haaland’s current deal runs until the summer of 2034, giving City a strong position in any future negotiations.
- How much would Real Madrid need to pay for Haaland?
It would require a record-breaking transfer fee — described as “crazy money” — to even tempt Manchester City into talks.
- What is Pep Guardiola’s stance on Haaland’s future?
Guardiola and City’s management are confident the striker remains committed to the club’s long-term project.
- Why does Real Madrid want Haaland?
Madrid see Haaland as the ideal striker to lead their attack for the next decade, potentially completing their attacking rebuild.
Conclusion
While Real Madrid’s renewed contact with Erling Haaland’s representatives has reignited speculation, Manchester City remain unfazed. The striker’s contract, commitment, and connection with Guardiola make any near-term move unlikely. However, with Madrid’s reputation for persistence and financial muscle, this could be the start of a transfer saga that defines the 2026 summer window. For now, Haaland stays blue — but the watchful eyes at the Santiago Bernabéu will not be blinking anytime soon.
