Real Madrid move for Haaland: What he wants before signing

Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal-scoring machine, has expressed his delight at Guardiola's decision to stay on at the Etihad Stadium. "Pep Guardiola is the best coach in the world and probably the best coach that has ever existed on Earth," Haaland told Sky Sports. "I expected a lot from him and he has delivered every second. I am very happy!"

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However, beneath the surface of this seemingly harmonious relationship lies a potential point of contention. According to reports from talkSPORT, Haaland's contract negotiations are ongoing, and a key sticking point is his release clause, which is rumored to be set at €180 million.

This clause has naturally attracted interest from European giants, particularly Real Madrid, who have been linked with a move for the striker for some time. The Spanish club has a history of pursuing high-profile signings, and Haaland's goal-scoring prowess and age make him a highly attractive target.

Haaland's insistence on keeping the release clause in his contract has fueled speculation that he may be keeping his options open for a future move to the Bernabéu. While the Norwegian has been clear about his admiration for Guardiola, the lure of playing for one of the world's most iconic clubs could prove too tempting to resist.

So, what does this mean for Manchester City? On the one hand, Guardiola's continued presence provides the club with a sense of stability and direction. However, the uncertainty surrounding Haaland's long-term future could create a sense of unease among the City faithful. If the Norwegian does decide to activate his release clause, it would be a significant blow to the club's ambitions.

For Real Madrid, the possibility of signing Haaland represents a dream scenario. The striker would be the perfect fit for their attacking style of play and would help to fill the void left by Karim Benzema. However, the Spanish giants would have to be prepared to pay a hefty fee to secure his services.

Ultimately, the future of Erling Haaland remains uncertain. While he has expressed his happiness at Manchester City, the lure of a new challenge and the potential to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world could prove too tempting to resist. Only time will tell whether the Norwegian striker will remain at the Etihad Stadium or make a move to the Spanish capital.