Bayern Munich are reportedly preparing a major offer for Erling Haaland if the Norway striker becomes available, with Manchester City’s conviction on 114 financial misconduct charges casting doubt over his future at the club.
Haaland, 26, signed a 10-year contract with Manchester City that runs until 2034. However, regulations would reportedly allow several first-team players to terminate their contracts and seek a move elsewhere if the club were relegated to the second tier or below.
Manchester City maintain their innocence and lodged an appeal against the conviction last week. Despite that, some of Europe’s leading clubs are already understood to be considering the possibility that Haaland could be put up for sale.
Bayern Munich are particularly interested in a reunion with the striker, having previously tried to sign him before his move to Manchester City. European football expert Andy Brassell told The Sun that Bayern would make a strong attempt to bring Haaland to Munich if Manchester City’s relegation were confirmed.
“Before Haaland moved to City, Bayern made him a financial offer that they had never made to any player before, even though the prevailing view was that the club had moved beyond buying major stars in Germany,” Brassell said.
A move to Bayern would represent a major shock given Haaland’s three seasons with Borussia Dortmund, their traditional rivals, before he left Germany for England.
The potential sporting partnership, however, would be significant. Haaland could form a powerful attacking duo with England captain Harry Kane, who is 33 and preparing to sign a new three-year contract with Bayern Munich.
The Bavarian club’s interest reflects its ambition to build a forward line capable of combining two of Europe’s most prominent goalscorers. Haaland’s possible return to Germany would also add another layer to his previous rivalry with Bayern, who competed with Borussia Dortmund for domestic honours during his time in the Bundesliga.
Real Madrid are also expected to examine the possibility of signing Haaland if he is made available. The Spanish club’s current team is led by Kylian Mbappe and sits fourth in La Liga after seven matches, prompting questions over where another elite forward could fit.
Brassell believes Real Madrid would nevertheless find a place for the Norwegian.
“I know some people will look at Real Madrid’s current side, led by Kylian Mbappe and sitting fourth in La Liga after seven matches, and ask where Haaland would play,” he said. “They would certainly find a place for him.”
