Erling Haaland leaning towards Man City transfer rather than Real Madrid as he ‘wants to play under Pep Guardiola’

ERLING HAALAND is warming to the idea of a summer switch to Manchester City.

Real Madrid were believed to be the Norwegian’s preferred option due to his wish to live in Spain – while Barcelona are another option.

AlamyHaaland is keen to play under the management of Pep Guardiola[/caption]

However reports in the Spanish media on Wednesday suggest the prospect of playing under Pep Guardiola is an enticing prospect for the 21-year-old.

His father – former City midfielder Alf Inge – is also believed to favour a move to the Etihad in the close season.

Borussia Dortmund have not given up hope of persuading him to stay with them for another year – and are looking for an answer in the coming weeks.

But Haaland is expected to take advantage of the £64 million release clause in his contract and move on this summer.

Mundo Deportivo reports that City have the advantage over their rivals because of Haaland’s wish to play under Guardiola.

Sunsport reported in January that the Norwegian hot-shot is keen to know the coach’s plans before he makes his decision.

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The Catalan’s contract at the Etihad has just 15 months left to run and he has yet to commit himself beyond summer 2023.

And that could yet play a part in the thinking of the young forward.

Meanwhile ‘Sport’ reports that City are willing to top any offer put on the table by their rivals in order to get their man.

The English champions are believed to view Madrid as their major rivals due to the financial problems that have hit Barcelona in the last two years.

Paris Saint Germain are also interested as they prepare for life after Kylian Mbappe – but Haaland favours a move to the Prem or Spain.

Guardiola repeated at the weekend that City need to spend their money on a recognised centre forward sooner or later – despite managing pretty well without one this season.

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