Erling Haaland is having the time of his life this season.
The Norwegian scores goals for fun, both for his club Manchester City and for his country, Norway.
In 15 appearances for Man City this season, the striker has already scored 19 goals.
He took his country, Norway, to the World Cup in 2026, their first qualification since 1998.
However, speculation over his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium has not stopped.
Erling Haaland to Real Madrid?
Haaland’s dream move to Real Madrid has taken a dramatic new turn, with new reports from Defensa Central claiming that any potential deal is entirely dependent on Vinícius Júnior’s future.
According to the Spanish media outlet, Real Madrid will only be able to launch a serious bid for the Manchester City superstar if Vinícius fails to agree a new contract at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Haaland, widely regarded as one of the most devastating strikers in world football, has long been linked with Real Madrid.
The Norwegian striker is said to be ‘enthusiastic’ about a future move to Spain, and Madrid have remained in contact with his camp since his days at Borussia Dortmund.
The Spanish giants can only sign him if the club frees up enough space in both their salary structure and long-term attacking plans.
This is where Vinícius Júnior becomes central to the equation. The Brazilian winger is currently engaged in tense contract negotiations with Real Madrid, with negotiations seemingly at a standstill due to salary demands and questions over his long-term role within the team.
Despite being one of the club’s most influential strikers in recent seasons, Vinícius’ relationship with new manager Xabi Alonso has not always seemed perfectly aligned, and moments of frustration on the pitch, including public reactions to substitutions, have fueled speculation about his future.
Real Madrid’s financial planning is also crucial. The arrival of Haaland would require a monumental financial package: transfer compensation, salary, image rights and bonus.
With Kylian Mbappé already taking up a huge chunk of the wage bill alongside Jude Bellingham, the club are reluctant to add another massive contract without getting rid of one of their current stars.
Real Madrid need Vinícius departure to sign Haaland
Vinícius is valued at around €150 million, meaning his departure would not only create sporting balance, but also generate the financial muscle needed to bring in Haaland.
Madrid remain hopeful of tying Vinícius down to a new long-term deal, but they are also aware that keeping him and Haaland happy in the same team would be tactically complicated.
Haaland demands a team built around his presence in the penalty area, while Vinícius thrives in a system that offers him freedom on the left flank.
Xabi Alonso is expected to restructure the entire attack to accommodate both, an idea the club are not entirely sold on.
Man City ready to break the bank with €100m bid for Real Madrid star
