World Cup
Real Madrid eye Erling Haaland As Vinicius Junior departs
Real Madrid have identified Manchester City striker Erling Haaland as a potential signing if Vinicius Junior departs. Haaland, who has scored four goals in Norway’s first two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is under contract with Manchester City until 2034 and would command a fee starting at €200 million.
Vinicius Junior’s contract with Real Madrid enters its final year next week, prompting club president Florentino Perez to seek a solution. Perez has publicly outlined Erling Haaland as the priority target should the Brazilian forward leave.
The report, sourced from Sport and relayed by , states that Perez personally named Haaland as the profile Madrid would pursue. The same report adds that Real Madrid also retain interest in Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise after the World Cup.
Haaland signed a contract extension with Manchester City in November 2024 that runs to 2034. City’s hierarchy will monitor Real Madrid’s interest closely, though they have indicated no intention to negotiate.
Incoming Real Madrid manager Enzo Maresca would inherit Haaland as the club’s most feared striker. Haaland’s relationship with City’s recruitment director Hugo Viana is reported as strong.
Rafaela Pimenta and Haaland’s father have responded to Perez’s comments, though no indication of a move has emerged. Madrid’s recent swift signing of Bernardo Silva this summer shows Jose Mourinho’s willingness to close deals when motivated.
With the 2026 World Cup still underway, the transfer saga is expected to evolve before the summer window fully opens.