Sebastian Kehl comments on Erling Haaland exit rumours

Erling Haaland is being linked with a move away from Borussia Dortmund, with Chelsea reportedly interested in signing him. Sebastian Kehl has now commented on the rumours. 

Chelsea are keen to sign Erling Haaland this summer, and reports in England claim that they are preparing a bid worth 175 million euros to test Borussia Dortmund’s resolve. The BVB bosses have been adamant that Haaland will not leave this summer, and Sebastian Kehl has now reiterated that stance.

Kehl was asked about Haaland’s future by Sky Germany ahead of Borussia Dortmund’s pre-season friendly against FC Gießen. The Borussia Dortmund head of players’ department said:

"“I have also read about the sum, but for us nothing has changed on this matter. We are planning firmly with Erling, this has also been clearly communicated to him and his advisor. He wants to play football, he feels comfortable with us and is hungry to score many goals for us this season.”"

Haaland still has three years left on his Borussia Dortmund contract. His contract is said to contain a release clause which will come into effect next summer. The 20 year old underwent his performance diagnostics tests on Tuesday, and will return to training this week.

Haaland will be looking to pick up right where he left off last season. The Norwegian international found the net 41 times in just 41 appearances for the Black and Yellows. last season. His performances helped Borussia Dortmund win the DFB-Pokal and finish in the top four.

Kehl also spoke about what they are looking for in a possible successor to Jadon Sancho. He said that replacing Sancho will be a big challenge, and hinted that they could sign a player who they can develop into their next star.

"“There are a few interesting profiles. We definitely want to do something. But on what conditions, that’s for us to decide. There are only a few players who are like Jadon though. That quality, the speed, the scoring threat and at the same time assists. Replacing him will be a big challenge. But Jadon also only developed into that player with us. We are also pursuing the same goal with another player.”"

PSV Eindhoven’s Donyell Malen is said to be Borussia Dortmund’s top target to replace Sancho. While Malen’s PSV teammate Noni Madueke is another name on the club’s shortlist.