The next summer transfer window will be interesting regarding the future of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker is one of the most prolific and exciting forward in football. It is widely reported that Haaland will be leaving Borussia Dortmund next summer. Along with various top European clubs, Bayern Munich is also linked with Haaland.
Earlier this year, Bayern’s sporting director-Hasan Salihamidzic had publicly insisted that the defending Bundesliga champions would be in the mix for Haaland. Since he reportedly has a release clause of €75 million in his contract at Dortmund, there is unlikely to be a bidding war.
However, Haaland will demand a huge wage packet. Since his agent is Mino Raiola, the commissions for the transfer will be significant. Moreover, few reports have suggested that Haaland’s father is also due a commission when he leaves Dortmund. The overall transfer could be much more expensive than the reasonable release clause for a world-class forward.
Former Club CEO, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is pessimistic about Bayern signing Haaland. While talking to Sport1 this week, Uli Hoeness also expressed doubts about Die Roten pulling off the deal to bring Haaland to Bavaria. The former Bayern president believes that the club will only move ahead with the transfer if the overall budget fits in their financial framework.
"“I do not know that. I don’t know the sums at the moment. With such kind of player, always see the whole package.”“The board of directors has to decide and discuss it in the supervisory board. But I know that there is absolutely nothing concrete on the table at the moment.”"
Die Roten has been very cautious about maintaining balance in the wage structure. The Bavarian club decided against meeting the wage demands of David Alaba last season. The Austrian defender eventually left the club on a free transfer last summer. Die Roten has reached an impasse in talks with Kingsley Coman due to the salary demands of the winger.
Considering the approach adopted by Die Roten regarding contract renewals, integrating Haaland in the current wage structure might have a long-lasting effect on the club. He is likely to become one of the biggest earners at the club if he moves to Bavaria next summer.
Moreover, Haaland is just 21, so his salary is going to keep increasing if he continues to perform at this level. The clients of Mino Raiola have often moved clubs, so it will not be a long-term solution for Bayern. With the bigger picture in mind, Die Roten might decide against signing Haaland next summer.
Nevertheless, getting a young striker next summer could be a good start for Die Roten to plan life after Lewandowski. Making a left-field signing in the forward department will allow Lewandowski to be the main man and the younger striker to learn the trade from him. A fascinating transfer window in summer lies ahead for the Bavarian faithful.