Hans-Joachim Watzke on Erling Haaland’s future: “The key lies with Erling”

Hans-Joachim Watzke has reiterated that a decision has not yet been made on whether or not Erling Haaland will leave Borussia Dortmund next summer. 

Erling Haaland’s future continues to be the subject of constant speculation, with several big clubs across Europe lining up for his signature. Hans-Joachim Watzke said on Sunday that a decision on the striker’s future beyond the end of the season has not yet been made. And the key lies in the hands of the 21 year old.

"While appearing as a guest on the Sport1-Doppelpass on Sunday, Watzke said:“It has not yet been decided if he will leave in the summer. We’ll see. I am neither confident nor pessimistic. The key lies with Erling.”“I get on well with Mino Raiola, we both know what makes the other tick. It is not right to believe that Raiola is all about the money. He also has in mind what is best for Erling.”"

Haaland still has three years left on his Borussia Dortmund contract. But his contract reportedly contains a release clause that will come into effect next summer. Watzke was also asked about the reported release clause on Sunday, but he did not want to comment on it.

Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea are among the many clubs in Europe who have been linked with a move for Haaland in recent months. Borussia Dortmund did not entertain any enquiries for the Norwegian striker last summer. But their stance could change next summer if the player decides to leave.

Haaland, who joined Borussia Dortmund from RB Salzburg in January 2020 for a fee of 20 million euros, has scored 68 goals in just 67 appearances across all competitions for the Black and Yellows. He has said on numerous occasions that he is very happy at the club. But it remains to be seen what the future holds for him beyond the end of the season.