Real Madrid are believed to have become the frontrunners in the race to sign Dortmund star Erling Haaland this summer.
The 20-year-old forward is one of the most in-demand players in the world following his stunning displays in both the Bundesliga and Champions League this season.
And his agent Mino Raiola and father Alf-Inge have already met with representatives from a number of elite clubs, including the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, to discuss a potential move.
But according to Spanish outlet Diario AS there are three key factors why Real are currently looking Haaland’s most likely destination.
(Image: Getty Images)
Firstly, the player himself is known to have dreamed of pulling on the famous white shirt for his whole life, and idolises Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is also alleged his Norwegian international teammate Martin Odegaard has been a big factor in attempting to persuade Haaland to join him at the Bernabeu next season, and he would certainly be welcomed with open arms in the Spanish capital.
Secondly, Madrid president Florentino Perez and Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke are known to have a good relationship, and have done business on a number of occasions in the past.
This friendship could be key in getting the deal done, and it also could lead to a stronger possibility of Dortmund allowing Real to pay the fee demanded for Haaland in instalments and add-ons over the coming few years rather than as a lump sum.
(Image: Getty Images)
Finally, Raiola is keen to build a connection with Madrid so that he can continue to offer his clients a potential route to the club in the future, and therefore he himself is likely to encourage Haaland to choose Los Blancos over their competitors.
It remains to be seen which team make the first move for Haaland, but we could be set for a long and complicated transfer saga which is likely to dominate the headlines throughout the summer.
