Manchester City are reportedly considering legal action after Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme publicly claimed that Erling Braut Haaland would join the Spanish giants if he wins the club’s upcoming elections.
The controversy emerged after Riquelme appeared on Spanish television holding a Real Madrid jersey bearing Haaland’s name while promising supporters that the Norwegian striker would become a Real Madrid player under his presidency.
Reports indicate that the businessman and presidential hopeful also claimed Haaland has a contractual release clause that could facilitate a move to the Santiago Bernabéu.
However, Manchester City have strongly denied the claims and described the reports linking Haaland to Real Madrid as false and misleading.
In an official response quoted by several international media outlets, the Premier League champions insisted there is no agreement, no release clause and no possibility of such a transfer taking place under the current circumstances.
“The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are untrue. There is no chance of this happening, and there is no contractual clause to enable it.” A Manchester City spokesperson reportedly stated.
The club further expressed anger over the use of Haaland’s image and name as part of an election campaign and confirmed they are exploring possible legal action over the matter.
“We are considering legal action for the use of our player’s image in this context” The statement added.
Reports also indicate that Haaland’s camp swiftly distanced itself from the claims made by Riquelme. The striker’s father, Alfie Haaland, together with his agent Rafaela Pimenta, reportedly dismissed the statements and denied having any discussions with the presidential candidate regarding a move to Real Madrid.
Riquelme further intensified the controversy after claiming he would also attempt to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri if elected president of the Spanish club.
The comments come at a sensitive period ahead of Real Madrid’s presidential elections, which are expected to be the club’s first seriously contested elections in nearly two decades.
Incumbent president Florentino Pérez is facing opposition from Enrique Riquelme following Real Madrid’s disappointing campaign and failure to win a major trophy in the last two seasons.
Despite repeated speculation linking Haaland with a future move to Spain, the Norwegian striker remains under long-term contract at Manchester City after recently extending his deal until 2034.
The 25-year-old enjoyed another prolific season with the English champions, finishing among the top scorers in Europe and further cementing his status as one of the world’s most valuable footballers.
Manchester City supporters are expected to closely follow developments in the coming days as tensions continue to rise between the Premier League club and figures connected to the Real Madrid presidential race.
Source: Newspyramid.com
