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

James Shearman

• 7 Mar 2024 16:00 CST
• 1 min read

Per French journalist Julien Laurens, City are pleased that Mbappe is heading to the Santiago Bernabeu because it means they will be unable to afford a deal to sign the Blues' star man, Erling Haaland.

The Norway international has long been mooted as a future Galactico, and he refused to shut the door on any move when asked earlier this week, but a summer deal now appears impossible.

Haaland to Barcelona?

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

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

Jijante FC states that, even though Barca are in a difficult financial position, the club is “clear” about one of its 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.