Manchester City’s star forward Erling Haaland has once again found himself at the centre of intense transfer speculation following striking remarks from his father, Alf-Inge Haaland, about a possible move to Real Madrid. With Jose Mourinho now managing the Spanish giants, rumours have intensified as the Norwegian striker continues to shine on the world stage.

Alf-Inge Haaland stokes Real Madrid speculation

The latest round of rumours began after Alf-Inge Haaland spoke openly about his son’s career plans ahead of Norway’s recent World Cup campaign. Although he reaffirmed Erling’s commitment to Manchester City, he acknowledged that the appeal of joining Real Madrid is something few players can resist.

The 53-year-old told DAZN, “Real Madrid move? He’s very happy at Manchester City and has a long contract. We’re waiting for the new season… but anyone would want to play for Madrid. You never know what can happen in football.”

Fabrizio Romano dismisses immediate transfer talk

Following those comments, well-known transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano stepped in to clarify the situation regarding Haaland’s future and the possibility of a high-profile switch to the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite the ongoing links with a reunion under Mourinho in Spain, Romano has made it clear that such a deal is not expected to happen this summer.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano stated firmly, “I am telling you Haaland to Real Madrid this summer – no. But Haaland to Real Madrid one day, who knows? Because Haaland is not excluding the possibility one day, again, not in the summer 2026 to go to Real Madrid. So, it’s something that in the mind of Erling Haaland is considered as a possibility for the future. Again, I am not talking about this summer.”

Committed to Manchester City’s long-term vision

Despite the swirling speculation, Haaland remains a key figure in Manchester City’s long-term plans. The forward, who is under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2034, is said to be enthusiastic about working with the club’s new management team following the departure of Pep Guardiola.

Romano further elaborated that the bond between Haaland and City remains strong. “Again, Haaland is very happy at Man City. He’s a crucial player for City project, for City new coach Enzo Maresca, so the feeling is absolutely super positive between Haaland and City. But that’s the story for this case,” Romano concluded.

World Cup heroics boost Haaland’s global value

Haaland’s reputation as one of football’s most lethal finishers was solidified during the 2026 World Cup. The Norwegian striker delivered a dazzling display, scoring both goals in a 2-1 triumph over Brazil that sent Norway into the quarter-finals. Performances like these only reinforce Real Madrid’s long-standing admiration for the prolific forward.

While a dream attacking trio of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Haaland continues to excite Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the Norwegian’s immediate priorities lie with Manchester City and his national team. For now, Mourinho will have to wait to see if the record-breaking Premier League striker will one day lead the line for his star-studded Real Madrid squad.