Barcelona President Slams Erling Haaland As ‘Media Player,’ Shutting Out the Possibility of His Arrival at the Catalan Club

Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe are the biggest names in soccer right now. Mbappe could be closer than ever to joining FC Barcelona’s bitter rival, Real Madrid. In light of this upcoming mega move, rumors had it that the Catalan club would sign Haaland to compete with Madrid. Some reports even suggested that the Norwegian nodded to a Blaugrana move. However, the club’s President, Joan Laporta has now dismissed those rumors with a blow. He ruthlessly overlooked the lethal goalscorer while doubling down on their efforts to build a ‘balanced team.’

During a conversation with Mundo Deportivo, Laporta was asked if Barcelona needed Erling Haaland. “I don’t think so, you are confusing a media player with a player who could fit well in our team,” (translated by Google Translate) Laporta said. By branding Haaland as a ‘media player,’ he perhaps referred to the intense attention the former has been attracting ever since he joined Manchester City. However, he went on to clarify that he wasn’t ruling out any or every transfer.

“We prioritize the team. There will probably be 1-2 signings who will be there above all for the team. I don’t see the need for an investment that could distort what we are building, that is to say, a balanced team,” the President added. It might come as a surprise to hear Laporta saying Erling Haaland won’t fit Barcelona’s style. The Norwegian is coached by Pep Guardiola, whose style is similar to Barcelona’s possession-heavy game.

Nevertheless, the 23-year-old has been facing flak for touching the ball much lesser than his teammates. In City, Haaland has emerged as a poacher with expertise in rendering the final lethal blow. Barcelona has rarely had someone like that on their roster. Anyhow, Haaland’s interest in joining the Catalan club has long become a story of the past. He rather seems to fancy a move to their arch-rival, Real Madrid!

When Erling Haaland himself fuelled Real Madrid rumors

Earlier this month, Erling Haaland was heavily linked to Real Madrid as well. He temporarily put an end to those rumors, saying he’s happy in Man City. However, he asserted he is not eyeing a contract extension. Sparking a potential Madrid move, Haaland said, “It will probably be a massive headline, tomorrow you never know what the future brings.”

The Norwegian reportedly has a release clause in his contract that can be triggered in the summer of 2024. Right now, the 23-year-old focuses on chasing the EPL title and the UEFA Champions League title. But if things go wrong for whatever reason, it won’t be a surprise if Haaland explores possibilities outside of Manchester.

Barcelona has shut the door on the star striker. But many others wouldn’t deny the Norway international’s signature.

READ MORE: Snubbed By Ronaldo, Erling Haaland Called Out For No Real Footballing Ability – “Not a Particularly Good Footballer”