Barcelona and Real Madrid keep watch on Manchester City striker Erling Haaland

Barcelona continue to view Erling Haaland as a potential future signing, while Real Madrid are also monitoring the Manchester City striker’s situation amid growing uncertainty surrounding the English club.

According to Sport, Manchester City’s alleged conviction for financial breaches, and the damaging consequences that could follow, have left half of Europe’s clubs watching developments closely. Haaland’s future has consequently returned to the centre of attention, despite there being no current indication that he is about to leave the club.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently said a future move to Spain could not be ruled out, even before a decision is reached in the case involving Manchester City. He also pointed out that both Barcelona and Real Madrid have shown repeated interest in Haaland since his time at Borussia Dortmund.

Barcelona have followed the Norway international for a long period. Supporters of the Catalan club have spent years imagining Haaland wearing the number nine shirt and leading the attack as an elite striker.

However, Raphinha’s emergence as a prolific goalscorer has surprised many and prompted some Barcelona fans to reconsider whether signing another forward is essential. Even so, should a move for Haaland become possible, Barcelona would regard it as an exceptional opportunity in the transfer market.

Real Madrid have also tried to sign Haaland on more than one occasion and continue to keep track of his position. Several factors, however, could make a move to the Spanish capital less likely.

The presence of a number of forwards in Real Madrid’s squad is one consideration. The club’s tactical and playing-style issues may also mean it needs a midfielder capable of controlling and organising matches more urgently than another striker, potentially reducing the priority given to Haaland.

For now, Haaland remains on highly respectful terms with Manchester City. The striker signed a new contract with the club that runs for an additional 10 years, and there are currently no signs of a breakdown in the relationship in the near future.

Romano also confirmed that there have been no contacts with another club. “Nothing has happened in recent days, and nothing will happen in the coming months,” he said.

Despite the lack of immediate movement, Romano stressed that Spain could still become Haaland’s destination if his circumstances change in the future.

“Spain could be Haaland’s destination if his future changes,” Romano added.