Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is targeting Manchester City’s Erling Haaland for a possible transfer in the summer of 2026. Reports from Sky Germany say Pérez sees the Bernabéu as the perfect next step for the Norwegian striker.
He believes Haaland has long dreamed of playing in Spain. The interest comes even though Haaland signed a new contract with City that runs until 2034.
Haaland has been one of the best strikers in the world since joining City in 2022. He scores goals at a remarkable rate. This season he has already passed 30 in all competitions.
His physical presence, speed and finishing make him hard to stop. Defenders struggle with his movement in the box. City built their attack around him, and he has helped them win several titles.
The new contract with City looked like it ended any short-term talk of a move. He added years and got a big pay rise. The city made it clear they want to keep their star player. Pep Guardiola has praised him often. The manager says Haaland is central to the team’s plans. Selling him would go against that.
Still, Madrid keeps watching. Pérez has a history of landing big names. He brought in players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and, more recently, Kylian Mbappé. Haaland fits that profile.
At 25, he is in his prime. Madrid see him as someone who could lead the line for years. The club has money set aside for major signings. They often wait for the right moment.
Fans have mixed views on the idea. Many get excited about Haaland joining Mbappé up front. The two could form a deadly partnership. Vinícius Júnior on the left and Rodrygo on the right would add even more threat.
Goals would come fast in that setup. Social media fills with mock lineups and highlight reels of Haaland in a white shirt.
Others point out problems. The forward line already looks crowded. Mbappé arrived last summer and needs space to shine. Vinícius won the Ballon d’Or recently.
Rodrygo contributes goals and assists. Adding Haaland might upset the balance. Minutes would have to be shared. Some worry about egos in a group of superstars.
Madrid’s current season has ups and downs. They sit near the top of La Liga but dropped points in key games. In Europe they advanced but face tough tests ahead. The attack scores plenty, but the defence has leaked goals at times. A player like Haaland could fix the finishing in tight matches.
City have no reason to sell soon. They lead the Premier League again. Haaland seems happy in Manchester. He has settled with family there.
Spanish links come from his time admiring Real Madrid growing up. He has spoken about La Liga in old interviews. But nothing suggests he wants out now.
No direct talks have started. Agents might have informal chats. Pérez works quietly on big deals. He waits for the right price or situation. Release clauses in Haaland’s deal are high if they exist at all. The city would demand over €200 million if forced to sell.
This rumour adds to summer talk. Madrid also watch other areas like midfield and defence. But a striker of Haaland’s level always gets attention. If the interest turns real, it could become one of the biggest transfers ever.
For now, it stays as reports. Haaland focuses on City duties. Madrid plan for the future. Fans on both sides debate what might happen. The summer window is months away. Plenty can change before then.
