Don Hutchison told ESPN that it’s ‘inevitable’ and ‘imminent’ that rumoured Liverpool target Erling Haaland will leave Borussia Dortmund.
The former Liverpool midfielder also claimed that Haaland is a ‘game-changer’ and somebody might have to be ‘creative’ to stump up ‘£180 million’ for his services.
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth previously claimed that the BVB star would be interested in a move to Liverpool, with 90 Minutes also suggesting that big-spending Manchester City and Chelsea are leading the chase for his signature.
Whilst Hutchison thinks it’s only a matter of time before Haaland is no longer wearing the colours of those in black and yellow, he also feels Dortmund will be ‘stubborn’ in selling him, as was proven by the Jadon Sancho saga last summer.
“They are a stubborn football club and they get what they want,” said Hutchison. “They do play hardball. Probably one of the best negotiators out there in European football and Jadon Sancho is a great comparison.
“If someone is going to take Haaland for that amount of money, £180 million then I think they might have to be creative – I don’t think anyone is going to go ‘wallop there is £180 million – The kid is an absolute game-changer.
On Haaland not staying if Dortmund don’t finish in CL places: “It’s a tricky one without knowing his character. I think the people behind the scenes are taking strategic steps to try and ease him into different levels of football.
“I think it’s imminent. It’s a matter of time and it’s inevitable before we see Erling Haaland at one of the major players in Europe – but I think the people that look after him wouldn’t actually mind him staying at Dortmund and learning his trade. Improving as a player and on his technical ability.
“When you watch him, he’s a powerhouse and he has little things to work on. There are not many flaws to his game.”
Liverpool as a club would elevate to another level with someone like Haaland in the team, but it would be a surprise to see those in the Merseyside boardroom put big-money down for his services.
Whilst Jurgen Klopp needs to refresh his team, especially his forward areas, perhaps selling one of his star players might lead to Haaland’s signature.
Or maybe, after an injury-hit campaign, Haaland is added to the fiery foursome that is Diogo Jota, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah.
If that’s the case then Manchester City would have a serious rival on their hands in regards to who has the best attacking depth in the league.
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