Jose Mourinho has reportedly told Real Madrid to go after Erling Haaland, but only if Vinicius Junior heads out the other way.
The returning Bernabeu boss is said to have given the nod for club president Florentino Perez to pursue the Manchester City striker as a potential replacement for the Brazilian winger, according to Catalan newspaper El Nacional.
Vinicius’ current deal expires in June 2027 and an extension has yet to be agreed. While the 25-year-old has warmed to the idea of staying since Xabi Alonso’s departure in January, his camp feel Madrid haven’t put forward a suitable financial package.
Mourinho sees Haaland as an extraordinary signing who could form a devastating attacking partnership with Kylian Mbappe, but doesn’t want to create an unbalanced attack. That means Vinicius would have to leave before any move for the Norwegian becomes a reality.
Selling Vinicius for a huge fee would help finance part of the Haaland operation, with the plan being for Haaland to operate as the main No.9 while Mbappe roams freely and the rest of the team works hard defensively to cover both.
City’s hand looks strong
City tied Haaland down to a colossal contract running until June 2034, meaning Madrid would likely have to offer a world-record sum of €250m (£213.5m) or more to even get the Premier League side to consider selling.
Recent comments from the player’s father, Alf-Inge Haaland, have reportedly reignited speculation, with Madrid chiefs viewing them as a veiled hint.
“Real Madrid move? He’s very happy at Manchester City and has a long contract. We’re waiting for the new season… but anyone would want to play for Madrid. You never know what can happen in football.”
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano poured some cold water on a swift move, saying Haaland to Madrid this summer is a no, but that the striker isn’t ruling out the possibility in the future. He added that Haaland is very happy at City and is a crucial player for new coach Enzo Maresca’s project.
For now, it’s one to file under ‘watch this space’ – and it’ll likely stay that way unless a certain Brazilian winger finds himself heading for the exit.