Erling Haaland prioritises Barcelona if Manchester City face heavy sanctions

16.10.2026 21:45 — Erling Haaland is reportedly weighing his options as Manchester City faces the prospect of heavy sanctions after being found guilty of multiple financial breaches. With an ongoing appeal filed by the club, uncertainty about the final punishment has pushed several first-team players to consider their futures.

According to current reports, big European clubs — Real Madrid, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Barcelona — have shown interest in the Norwegian striker. Haaland has made it clear privately that he intends to stay at Manchester only if the club avoids a drastic punishment; otherwise he already has a preferred destination.

Haaland's preferred destination, the reports say, is Barcelona. Agents for the Catalan club are said to have contacted his representatives and received a very positive response, with Haaland allegedly placing Barcelona ahead of the other suitors. The forward is under contract until the summer of 2034 and is widely valued at close to €200 million.

Potential transfer mechanics and squad consequences

Barcelona reportedly hopes the move could be completed for about €100 million — a figure the club believes could be feasible if Manchester City's sanctions depress the striker's transfer fee. If Barcelona were to sign Haaland, Julian Alvarez would reportedly fall out of the club's immediate plans as the focus shifts to installing the Norwegian as the long-term leading centre-forward.

Sources say Haaland is impressed by Barcelona's current playing style, and the club's search for a long-term No. 9 promises him guaranteed minutes and a central attacking role. The final outcome, however, depends on the appeal process and the sanctions ultimately handed down to Manchester City.

Photo: press material from the event