Borussia Dortmund director Hans-Joachim Watzke has confessed that in-demand striker Erling Haaland has a soft spot for Real Madrid.
Every top side on the planet is planning a charm offensive for Haaland next summer, when his release clause of under £70m kicks in, with Real joining Manchester United as two of the top suitors for the 21-year-old's signature.
Real even hope to be able to land both Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, who is inching ever closer to leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer when his contract expires in 2022.
There is going to be an almighty battle for Haaland's signature, but speaking to Sport1, Watzke name-dropped Real as a side capable of convincing the Norway international to join them.
"He is an independent personality," Watzke said of Haaland. "Anyway, at some point he will play for one of the best clubs in the world, although he is already playing in one of the best clubs in the world.
"But I know, of course, that Real Madrid seduces him."
Having said that, Watzke then went on a passionate rant in which he dismissed suggestions that Dortmund have already agreed to sell Haaland next summer, insisting the door is open for him to remain.
"The rumours suck," he said. "Some experts say 'they are on the stock market, they have to sell Haaland in the summer'. That's all bulls**t. The decision to sell someone at our club is made by the board only.
"It has not yet been decided if he will actually leave next summer. We will see. The key is only with Erling. I have neither confidence nor pessimism."
Finally, Watzke also stressed that he is not concerned about the actions of agent Mino Raiola, who has been speaking with clubs across the globe about a potential move for Haaland.
"I have a good relationship with Mino Raiola," Watzke said. "It is not correct to believe that Mino only thinks about money. He is simply thinking about what is best for the player."
This article was originally published on 90min as Dortmund director admits Erling Haaland is 'seduced' by Real Madrid.
Source: www.90min.com