Erling Haaland Signs Long-Term Deal with Manchester City

Erling Haaland has signed a 10-year contract with Manchester City, cementing his status as one of the world's top strikers.

What happened?

Haaland, who is about to turn 26 years old, has been in scintillating form for the Premier League champions, rewriting the record books on a regular basis. His stunning strike rate has made him a key player for Manchester City, and the club are hoping to see him spend several more seasons in Manchester.

Why it matters for Erling Haaland

Haaland's contract, which runs until 2034, has raised eyebrows in the football world, with many predicting that he will be one of the most sought-after players in the coming years. However, former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott believes that Haaland will stay at the club for several more seasons, citing his impressive goal-scoring record and the lucrative contract he has signed.

What comes next?

Lescott, who played for Manchester City between 2007 and 2014, was speaking in association with a leading sports brand. He said: "Who knows, he may want the Premier League record in terms of goals, so that may be his ambition. But I don't know. I'm not nervous about him leaving in the next two or three seasons, if that's the question."

Lescott added: "I think an eight-year contract protects you from potential bidders. I don't think his value is ever going to go down in that time, so I think that's a factor in regards to the contract length."

Haaland's father, Alf-Inge Haaland, has been linked with Real Madrid in the past, but Lescott believes that the striker will stay at Manchester City for several more seasons. He said: "They're not going to be selling him because he's not scoring goals, so he's going to be at the peak of his powers, at one of the best teams in the world, with another team trying to buy him - and a rival in the Champions League - so that fee isn't going to be small."

Lescott concluded: "In regards to Erling Haaland, I think the club are in a great position for him to be there for the foreseeable future."

Haaland is currently enjoying a post-World Cup break, having seen Norway finish 3rd in the tournament. He will return to action with Manchester City in the Community Shield against Arsenal on August 6th.

category: player_focus