Reports suggesting that Barcelona presidential candidate Victor Font was pursuing a priority option for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland have been firmly rebutted by the player’s agent. While the Norwegian international has frequently been linked with a future move to La Liga, there are currently no indications of such a transfer materializing in the near future.
The speculation intensified after members of Haaland’s entourage, Carles Planchart and Xavier Aguilar, were observed leaving the same Madrid hotel as Manchester City Sporting Director Hugo Viana. This coincided with City’s Champions League match against Real Madrid. Soon after, reports circulated claiming negotiations for a right of first refusal for Haaland were underway. These developments occurred amidst political sparring between Barcelona presidential rivals, with Font having previously dismissed Joan Laporta’s comments on a potential Julian Alvarez signing as mere conjecture.
Haaland’s Agent Denies Barcelona Contact
In an interview with El Chiringuito, Haaland’s representative, Rafaela Pimienta, swiftly addressed and dismissed the rumors.
“We have always expressed great respect and admiration for FC Barcelona,” Pimienta stated, “however, there has been absolutely no contact whatsoever, either with Haaland or with his management at FC Barcelona, or with any potential transfer targets.”
She further emphasized, “Erling renewed his contract several months ago and is exceptionally content at Manchester City. He is performing very well, and given how positive everything is for him at Manchester City, there is simply nothing to discuss regarding a transfer.”
Barcelona’s Ongoing Striker Search
Meanwhile, Barcelona continues its challenging quest for a new number nine. The club reportedly views Julian Alvarez, once Haaland’s backup, as too costly. Although linked with Omar Marmoush, another potential alternative to Haaland at City, Marmoush’s top-level experience is limited. Currently, securing a leading striker remains a top priority for the Blaugrana, but a clear target has yet to emerge.
