Teen sensation Erling Haaland is reportedly close to signing up with Manchester United despite speculations that two Bundesliga clubs are in hot pursuit of the Red Bull Salzburg striker. However, amid talks of ongoing negotiations that could bring the young Norwegian to the Premier League soon, Old Trafford is keeping mum on the subject.
The English club has refused to confirm that Haaland has been in contact with team executives and denied the circulating story that United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward have met with the youngster's camp.
According to BBC, Solskjaer has refused to comment on the suggestions that he is ready to make a bid on Haaland, who the team manager had worked with when the two were with Molde back in Norway three years ago.
Previously though, the United boss has indicated that when his targeted talents become available, he will make an offer to these players. Specifically, Solskjaer said he would be looking to acquire midfielders and strikers, and Haaland certainly fits the requirements set by United for new recruits.
The 19-year-old is presently considered one of the rising football stars in Europe. He has so far appeared in 22 games for Salzburg and already scored 28 goals.
Solskjaer said Haaland seemed so sure where he is headed next and what to do in case he gets the chance to move out of Austria.
"He knows what he wants to do and knows what he is going to do," said the United head coach of the Salzburg forward.
Metro said in a report that Haaland is being courted by Borussia Dortmund and Red Bull Leipzig with the latter viewed as enjoying a bit of an advantage. That's because Salzburg and Leipzig are under the same owners.
It is understood too that Mino Raiola, who is acting as an agent for Haaland, is favoring a switch to Bundesliga. Per the same report, Raiola, who also represents Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is to have already advised the youngster to play in Germany and skip any offers coming from England.
However, Solskjaer seemed assured that he had a good working relationship with Haaland, and come January, that factor could prove pivotal when the youngster finally decides where to play next.
The United manager said all the rumors on Haaland's supposed exit from Salzburg are meaningless for now as the teenager will have the last say on the matter. What's sure is the Red Bull striker is having a great time where he is at the moment and will remain so wherever he plays next, Solskjaer said.
