Erling Haaland Is Almost Certain To Join Manchester City, Xavi: Barcelona Is Difficult To Compete

Borussia Dortmund player, Erling Haaland, chose Manchester City over Barcelona. (Photo: Twitter @BlackYellow )

JAKARTA - The transfer of the saga of Borussia Dortmund's player, Erling Haaland, to Manchester City seems to be just a matter of time. A number of German media have reported that the Norwegian player is getting closer to the English Premier League giants.

According to Sky Germany quoted by Reuters, Erling Haaland has decided Manchester City as the next port. As Bild and Kicker report, the deal could be finalized in the coming days.

However, there has been no official statement from Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund regarding Erling Haaland's transfer news.

However, it is rumored that Dortmund already have a potential replacement for the former Molde player. He is Salzburg striker, Karim Adeyemi.

If Haaland chooses City, Barcelona will certainly bite the finger. The Spanish La Liga club is indeed included in the list of clubs who want to woo the 21-year-old player.

Although disappointed, the Barcelona coach, Xavi Hernandez, is self-aware. He understands if his club can't compete with City, which is supported by abundant funds.

Please note, the player has a release clause of 75 million euros (equivalent to Rp. 1.14 trillion). That doesn't include the agent's commission.

Even if they manage to get Haaland at a low price, Barcelona is predicted to find it difficult to pay the player's salary.

"It will be difficult because of the economic situation. You can't lie to yourself, that's the reality," Xavi said, as quoted by Antara from Goal.

"I'm not going to say (it's only because of money). I'm not going to underestimate the projects of other clubs. We're not the only club with good projects."

"Manchester City have won many titles and competed at the top level. However, if what you say happens (and Barcelona don't sign Erling Haaland), it's because of financial problems," he concluded.