Erling Haaland’s future at Manchester City has come under fresh speculation after the club was reportedly found guilty of 114 out of 115 financial charges brought against it.
The Norway international has established himself as one of the world’s leading strikers since joining City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, scoring 169 goals in 205 Premier League appearances.
At just 26, Haaland is also on course to challenge Sergio Aguero’s record as Manchester City’s all-time leading goalscorer. His current scoring rate has also put Alan Shearer’s Premier League record of 260 goals within sight, although breaking it would require him to remain in England for a significant part of his career.
His long-term future has nevertheless become a subject of discussion amid uncertainty surrounding Manchester City and the potential consequences of the financial case.
Former Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Haaland could consider leaving if City were relegated from the Premier League and excluded from the Champions League, while suggesting Barcelona could be a potential destination.
“Players like Haaland want to win trophies. I agree that if he moves, it could happen, and his transfer value would certainly be very high,” Mendieta said.
He identified Real Madrid and Barcelona as possible destinations but believes Barcelona’s style could suit the Norwegian forward particularly well.
“The way he makes his runs and his strength inside the box are very well suited to Hansi Flick’s style of play,” Mendieta said.
“Haaland certainly would not want to stay at a club that does not win trophies,” he added.
