Blow for Barcelona as Erling Haaland will sign the new Manchester City with an increased release clause

Barcelona have made their search for a new star striker as they prepare for the inevitable departure of Robert Lewandowski in the next two years. Among those linked in recent months, the dream signing – especially for president Joan Laporta – is Manchester City's Erling Haaland.

Haaland is a player who is currently out of reach, although Barcelona can significantly improve their finances at the time of Lewandowski's departure, there is a chance that he could be sought. However, their projected research should be made more difficult.

According to reports in England (via Sport), Haaland is close to finalizing a new four-and-a-half-year contract with Man City, which will also increase his salary. In addition, his release clause will be increased from 150 million euros to 200 million euros.

There is still a (very) slim chance for Barcelona to get their hands on Haaland at some stage, but doing so is going to become increasingly difficult. As such, other options can be considered stronger.