Barcelona’s long-term plan to sign Erling Haaland as the replacement for forward Robert Lewandowski has been derailed.
Manchester City’s striker, Haaland, is allegedly about to sign a new contract.
According to Sport, the deal, scheduled to last four and a half years, will not only enhance Haaland’s income but also raise his release clause from €150 million to €200 million.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta thought the club’s financial recovery would allow them to pursue Haaland.
However, the new deal would make an already challenging transfer even more difficult for the Catalan giants.
Haaland, currently one of the most prolific strikers in the world, has been in sensational form since joining Manchester City.
His presence at the Etihad Stadium has seen City dominate domestically and in Europe, making him an indispensable asset.
While Barcelona might still keep slim hopes of signing Haaland, the club may need to look elsewhere for their next star striker.
Given their ongoing financial constraints, alternatives to the Norwegian superstar are likely to be explored more seriously as Lewandowski edges closer to the end of his career.
