Why Man City are 'relieved' that Real Madrid have agreed Mbappe transfer

James Shearman

• Updated: 7 Mar 2024 22:08 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester City are reportedly 'relieved' that Real Madrid have agreed a deal to sign Kylian Mbappe.

Mbappe's contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires in the summer and he is fully expected to join Los Blancos on a free transfer.

According to French journalist Julien Laurens, City are therefore pleased that Madrid will no longer be interested in Erling Haaland.

READ MORE: Latest Barcelona transfer rumours

Despite winning trophies and breaking records in Manchester, Haaland is rumoured to be keen on a move to Madrid.

However, with the news that Mbappe is going there soon, Haaland will not have the option to go until 2025 at the earliest.

Even though there is no transfer fee involved in the Mbappe deal, the Frenchman's wage demands are so high that Los Blancos' budget will be depleted.

READ MORE: Arsenal star 'would be delighted to sign for Barcelona'

Could Real Madrid's rivals, Barcelona, look to take advantage of the situation?

Haaland to Barcelona?

Despite Barca's lack of funds, they have held talks with Haaland’s agent over a potential blockbuster move, according to journalist Gerard Romero.

There was a meeting over a week ago between Haaland’s people and the Catalan club, with reports in Spain indicating that Barcelona will target a world-class star.

Jijante FC previously stated that the club is 'clear' about that being one of their key objectives of the summer transfer window.

Unsurprisingly, though, the prospect of a deal going further is slim. The financial demands of both Man City and the player are set to be out of Barcelona’s reach.

It is stated that Haaland has a release clause worth €175 million, which is well outside the club’s capacity at present.