The name of Erling Braut Haaland is starting to gain prominence in relation to FC Barcelona. Why? Because, as recently asserted by FCBN, the Barcelona team has the Norwegian 'killer' on their list of targets for a signing to be finalized either in the summer of 2025 or in 2026, as a top-notch replacement for Robert Lewandowski and also as one of the key figures to inaugurate the new Spotify Camp Nou.
In this regard, it is evident that for Barcelona, although Haaland is an attractive player who fits perfectly into the sporting project and is one of the best footballers in the world, there is a significant obstacle in his transfer. This is based on the fact that it is very likely that if Manchester City decides to sell the former Borussia Dortmund player, who is under contract with the club until 2027, they will probably not accept anything less than €100 million.
Considering the striker's increasingly prolific performance, it would not be surprising if the 'citizens' demand a high amount for him. Haaland currently has a market value of €200 million, according to the 'Transfermarkt' website.
Barcelona would not be averse to including a player in the Haaland negotiation
Currently, from FC Barcelona, being aware of this, they would be seeking the necessary means to find a more affordable price for Haaland. Even, as reported by the media outlet 'El Nacional.cat', the idea of including a player in the transaction for the Norwegian forward does not seem so far-fetched, and a 'top' name has already been proposed to carry out this operation.
The mentioned source maintains that Barcelona would not be against adding one of their big stars in midfield to this transaction, the 27-year-old Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Recently recovered from his problems with his right ankle, the Arkel-born player would be the chosen piece by the Blaugrana team to push forward with this move for Haaland to the 'Sky Blue' side.
Both teams would have reasons to consider this operation
It is worth noting that for Manchester City, the name of Frenkie de Jong could be appealing, as, for example, there are uncertainties about the continuity of Kevin De Bruyne in the upcoming season and Rodri Hernandez's recovery from his right knee ligament injury. Therefore, it would not be unreasonable to think that Pep Guardiola's team could view the addition of a player who, in full physical condition, can be one of the best midfielders in the world, in a positive light.
Additionally, this potential transaction would be beneficial for Barcelona. Given that there are many speculations surrounding Frenkie de Jong's renewal with the club and the uncertainty about it, it could be an option that the Dutchman does not renew his contract. In the event of a departure, it would be a real shame to let him go without any compensation.
Furthermore, currently, Frenkie de Jong is one of the highest-paid players in the Culés' squad, so his departure would also help Barcelona alleviate issues regarding 'fair play' and the club's wage scale. This would pave the way for the incorporation of top players like Haaland or other 'top' players that the Catalan side wishes to bet on.
Now, the outcome of this case is uncertain. Initially, it seems to be a complicated situation, as Manchester City has not openly expressed a desire to part ways with Erling Haaland, who is currently the top scorer of the 2024-25 Premier League season and one of the best strikers in the world. Additionally, the feasibility of an agreement between both parties involving such high-caliber names and hierarchy will need to be considered.