Michael Zorc relaxed about Erling Haaland’s Borussia Dortmund future

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc is relaxed about Erling Haaland’s future, despite rumours linking him with a move away from the club. Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola made waves earlier this week by saying that only ten clubs can afford to sign the 20 year old when he decides to leave Dortmund. Raiola also said that no sporting director or manager in the world would say no to a move for the striker.

Of course, the media ate it up and viewed the statement as Raiola hinting at a summer move for Haaland. But Michael Zorc does not expect the Norwegian international to leave Borussia Dortmund anytime soon. Speaking during Thursday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Arminia Bielefeld, Zorc said:

"“Such statements don’t annoy me at all, and I don’t think he caused a stir with them at all. There’s no dissent there at all. That was a normal statement from him. It’s clear as day to everyone that Erling Haaland cannot, doesn’t want to and won’t move to just any club at some point after his time at Borussia Dortmund.”“We are happy that we have Erling here, that he has also scored more goals in recent games and has proven his value to us. I can only say that we continue to plan with him, and I don’t think he’s uncomfortable here in Dortmund either.”"

Haaland joined Borussia Dortmund from RB Salzburg in January 2020, and has already scored 43 goals in just 43 appearances for the club. His performances have unsurprisingly attracted the interest of some of Europe’s biggest clubs. The likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with a move for him in recent weeks. The striker has three and a half years remaining on his Borussia Dortmund contract.

Haaland is said to have a release clause in his contract, but it will not become active until the end of the 2021/22 season.

Michael Zorc was also asked whether Borussia Dortmund could be forced to sell Haaland for financial reasons if they fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League, but did not want to get drawn into that discussion.