During the 2022-23 season, Haaland played a pivotal role in Pep Guardiola's team, contributing to their historic achievements of winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. He scored a remarkable 52 goals in 53 appearances across all competitions. Haaland has continued his impressive goal-scoring form in the current season, with eight goals in seven Premier League games, helping Manchester City secure the top spot in the league.
Although Haaland still has four years left on his existing contract at the Etihad Stadium, there have been persistent rumors linking him to a potential move to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Real Madrid tried to sign Haaland last summer but was unsuccessful. However, it's reported that they still have a keen interest in the striker and may intensify their pursuit in 2024.
Carlo Ancelotti's team at Real Madrid has also expressed admiration for Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe and has ambitions of pairing him with Haaland in the future. Real Madrid is expected to prioritize the addition of a new center-forward in the next two transfer windows, particularly after the departure of club legend Karim Benzema in the summer.
To counter Real Madrid's interest in Haaland, there are reports that Manchester City is actively working to initiate contract talks with him. The Daily Mail suggests that Manchester City is determined to convince Haaland to stay and is willing to extend his current contract by at least another 12 months. Additionally, there are discussions about including a release clause in Haaland's new contract, similar to the two clauses in his initial contract, one of which was related to Pep Guardiola's future and was updated when Guardiola signed a new deal in November, extending it until 2025.
Furthermore, it's anticipated that Haaland will be rewarded with a salary increase for his outstanding contributions to the club. Currently earning around £400,000 per week, the new contract may include bonuses and incentives.
Erling Haaland, who is a strong contender for the 2023 Ballon d'Or alongside World Cup winner Lionel Messi, will be aiming to continue his goal-scoring streak when Manchester City faces Arsenal in a Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
