FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich coy on Erling Haaland links as speculation continues
By Tushar Bahl
FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez and president Joan Laporta, as well as Bayern Munich CEO Oliver Kahn all responded to speculation about Erling Haaland on Saturday.
Speculation about Erling Haaland’s future has been rife in recent days, with reports claiming that representatives from FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich have held talks with his agent Mino Raiola. Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez and president Joan Laporta, as well as Bayern CEO Oliver Kahn were asked about speculation linking their clubs with the Borussia Dortmund striker on Saturday, and they all remained coy on the rumours.
It was reported earlier this week that Xavi flew to Germany to hold talks with Haaland regarding a potential move to Barcelona. But the Barcelona boss refused to confirm or deny that claim during his press conference.
"“I can’t give details. All I can say is that we’re working on the present and future of the club,” Xavi said. “When things can be announced, we will announce them.”"
Barcelona president Joan Laporta also denied that they have had any negotiations yet over a move for Haaland. “I can deny that there has been any kind of negotiation over Haaland. Not a meeting, nor a conversation, nothing. With regards to the meeting between Xavi and Haaland in Munich, that’s none of my business.”
Bayern CEO Oliver Kahn confirmed ahead of their game against Bayer Leverkusen that he did meet with Mino Raiola in Monaco recently. But he did not want to reveal whether they held talks regarding the Borussia Dortmund striker.
"“Yes, it’s true, I was in Monaco. It’s quite normal to meet with player agents. You will understand that I will not speak publicly about the contents of these talks.”“Erling Haaland is a Borussia Dortmund player and is injured at the moment. I’ve always stressed that I don’t like to talk about players at other clubs.”"
Bayern Munich are also interested in signing Ajax midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who is another client of Raiola.
In addition to Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris St. Germain are also said to be in the race to sign Haaland. The Norwegian international is currently sidelined with a muscle injury, but that hasn’t stopped the transfer speculation.
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Borussia Dortmund are also hoping to convince Haaland to stay at the club for at least another season. Hans-Joachim Watzke said last month that he expects the 21 year old’s future to be resolved within the next 4-6 weeks.