Barcelona have reportedly identified Manchester City forward Erling Braut Haaland as a potential future transfer target.
Haaland has just stated his second campaign at the Etihad Stadium and has already helped steer City to a Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League treble during 2022-23.
The Norway international has also contributed with a remarkable 58 goals and 10 assists from just 59 appearances in all competitions.
As it stands, it appears increasingly likely that the 23-year-old will enjoy an extended stay in the North West of England, rather than contemplate a fresh challenge in the near future.
Nevertheless, that will not stop other clubs being linked with an approach for Haaland, particularly Real Madrid who were credited with a strong interest when the player was at Borussia Dortmund.
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According to 90min, though, Barcelona are ready to try to gatecrash any approach made by their La Liga rivals.
That is despite the Catalan giants continuing to deal with the ramifications of financial issues that have been ongoing for a number of years.
Barcelona have instead largely had to target free agents and players available for cut-price fees, as shown by their business during the recent transfer window.
However, it is claimed that Barcelona are already looking as far ahead as 2025, when Haaland would have two years remaining on his contract.
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City would have theoretically already attempted to negotiate a renewal before that stage in order to protect their most prized asset, who may then be valued as the best player in the world.
As it stands, it is alleged that Haaland has release clauses present in his deal that would allow him to leave City for a fee believed to be in the region of £150m in two years time.
By then, Robert Lewandowski - Barcelona's current frontman - will be close to turning 37 years of age, and is unlikely to be regarded as first choice by Xavi or whoever is in charge should he remain at Camp Nou.
Any bid from Real may be dependent on whether they have managed to sign Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe and the money that they have committed to that particular deal.
Darren Plant
