Barcelona Downplays Interest in Manchester City Striker Erling Haaland

Barcelona sporting director Deco dismissed rumours linking the club with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, saying they shouldn't be obsessed with signing a number 9. Despite reports that president Laporta sees Haaland as a dream target, the Norwegian, 25, recently signed a contract until 2034 and has scored 18 goals in 11 games this season for club and country.

Having the football world buzzing, Barcelona’s reported interest in Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has been met with caution from the Catalan club. Barcelona sporting director Deco has dismissed the idea of becoming “obsessed” with signing a number nine to replace Robert Lewandowski, whose contract ends this season. Although Lewandowski continues to score, with four goals in seven La Liga games, his age of 37 has prompted Barcelona to explore potential long-term replacements, including Haaland and Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy.

Deco suggested that Barcelona could adapt without a traditional striker, noting that Ferran Torres can operate in that role and citing PSG’s Champions League win without a conventional number nine. Haaland, who signed a contract earlier this year to remain at Manchester City until 2034, has been in prolific form, netting 18 goals in 11 appearances for club and country this season.

Pep Guardiola reinforced that Haaland is focused on fulfilling his contract at City, adding that while clubs like Barcelona may dream of signing him, the Norwegian striker is thriving at the Etihad. Barcelona’s interest appears more speculative than immediate, with the club cautious of overcommitting financially while City’s striker continues his record-breaking goal-scoring form.