Real Madrid chief Perez confirms Erling Haaland talks

Paul Macdonald

• Updated: 20 May 2021 11:26 BST
• 2 min read

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has admitted that Erling Haaland’s father has visited the club’s training ground ahead of a potential transfer this summer.

The Borussia Dortmund striker is among the hottest properties in the world right now, with a number of clubs being linked with his signature.

READ MORE Ian Wright believes Erling Haaland will be tempted by Manchester City

Both Barcelona and Madrid were said to have held talks with his father, former Manchester City and Leeds player Alf-Inge, and his agent Mino Raiola.

But in an extensive interview with El Chiringuito, which was mainly dominated by talk of the controversial new European Super League, Perez confirmed the visit and, effectively, the club’s interest.

He also stated Haaland isn’t quite up to the level of Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo just yet.

“Haaland’s father has visited our training ground, Valdebebas, yes,” Perez said.

“Everyone has had the same reaction, we’ve never seen anything like this. Haaland and (Kylian) Mbappe are two excellent players but what (Lionel) Messi and Ronaldo have done is incredible.”

Where does Haaland’s future lie?

There has been lots of speculation surrounding the 20-year-old, who has scored a stunning 50 goals in 54 games for Dortmund.

Both Clasico clubs are likely to be incredibly interested, while Manchester City have long been linked with a move for him as they search for a replacement for Sergio Aguero this summer.

But with Dortmund refusing to join the Super League, as of yet at least, that could strengthen the chances of him staying at the club if he or his family oppose the formation of the new competition, which would feature many of the clubs who could afford to sign him.

Last month, ESPN reported that Dortmund had set their valuation of Haaland at $180million.