Erling Haaland: Mino Raiola plays down talk of a ‘war’ at Dortmund over striker’s future

Despite brushing off tensions, Raiola says Haaland could still leave the Bundesliga club

Sarah Rendell
Tuesday 13 April 2021 11:56 BST
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Why Everyone Loves Erling Haaland

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Erling Haaland could still leave Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season, according to his agent Mino Raiola.

The Norwegian striker, who has scored 33 goals across all competitions this season, is among the most sought-after talents in Europe with interest coming from a number of top sides including Real Madrid,Chelsea and Barcelona.

Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc has publicly said the club want to retain Haaland but Raiola says there’s no guarantee the star will stay.

“Michael Zorc made it clear to us that BVB do not want to sell Erling this summer,” he toldSPORT1.

“I respect this opinion, but that does not automatically mean that I also agree. BVB were very clear in their views. We are okay with that.

“There is no war between us and BVB - absolutely not! The relationship with Zorc, Aki (Hans-Joachim Watzke, Dortmund CEO) and [Sebastian] Kehl (Dortmund director) is still good.”

Raiola added to ARD Sportchau: “We have a very clear plan to start the new season with Erling. I like to stick to the contractual basis and how discussions have been carried out in the last week.”

Haaland’s £68million release clause kicks in next season which could see Dortmund make the star remain at the German club.

However, the issue may be decided on whether the Bundesliga side can qualify for the Champions League.

The club are currently seven points off of a European spot and, with the big clubs all wanting the £154m man, deals may not be decided until well into the summer.

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