(Football news) Erling Haaland is the most sought after player in European football at the moment. It was only a matter of time before the young prodigy left Borussia Dortmund and all reliable reports suggest that has agreed to join Manchester City. Manchester United, Chelsea, Barcelona, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were named potential destinations but ultimately it is down to Madrid and Manchester City. Reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid was the one who pulled out of the race.

The main reason Madrid didn't want to sign Haaland is that they are completely focused on Kylian Mbappe. According to reports Erling Haaland and his entourage wanted a release clause of around €150 million which Madrid rejected. Real Madrid is still a dream destination for Erling Haaland but it looks like he has chosen Manchester City as a stepping stone. If Real Madrid are going to sign Mbappe as reported then they will have too many strikers. Karim Benzema, Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe will be difficult to bench while Haaland is also too good to not start week in week out.

There is a high chance that Haaland has a reasonable release clause which will particularly apply to Real Madrid. In simple terms if in one or two years time Real Madrid want to sign the Norwegian, they will have to pay around €150 million for his services which works well for all 3 parties. The striker's injury record may have also influenced Real Madrid's decision as he has been troubled with multiple injuries this season. Real Madrid can now instead focus on other areas of the pitch which need reinforcements like left back or CDM.

Manchester City is a perfect destination for Erling Haaland. He will be playing under Pep Guardiola in what is already an established team. They have been playing well without a striker and with Haaland next season, it's going to be absolute carnage. City will be hoping that the striker can remain fit and not be troubled by injuries. 

Also read: How ACL injuries destroyed the careers of two Real Madrid wonderkids