Erling Haaland, the 24-year-old Norwegian striker who has redefined goal-scoring at Manchester City, continues to dominate headlines both on and off the pitch. With 117 goals in 133 appearances since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Haaland’s lethal finishing has powered City to two Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and an FA Cup. His recent nine-and-a-half-year contract extension, binding him to the Etihad Stadium until June 2034, is the longest in Premier League history and a bold statement of intent from the club. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed a critical detail: the deal includes a release clause, offering a potential exit route for Haaland, though its activation comes with significant caveats. “There is a release clause in Erling Haaland’s new ten-year Manchester City contract,” Romano confirmed, adding that his “understanding” is that it’s designed to deter all but the most determined suitors.
The contract, signed in January 2025, elevates Haaland to the highest-paid player in Premier League history, with a base salary of £525,000 per week, potentially rising to £865,000 with bonuses. This financial commitment reflects City’s determination to build their future around the striker, especially amid the uncertainty of 115 Premier League charges for alleged financial breaches. Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, played a pivotal role in negotiations, emphasizing his contentment at City. “I am really happy to have signed my new contract and to be able to look forward to spending even more time at this great club,” Haaland said, praising the “special” environment fostered by manager Pep Guardiola, the coaching staff, and fans. Yet, the inclusion of a release clause, valid from 2029, introduces a layer of intrigue, particularly for clubs like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona, who have long coveted the striker.
Romano clarified that the clause is set at “very high numbers,” making it a formidable barrier for potential buyers. Unlike Haaland’s previous contract, which reportedly had a £150 million clause that Real Madrid considered in 2024, the new clause’s value is structured to protect City’s investment. “The release clause is only available at very high numbers,” Romano noted, suggesting it could exceed £200 million, a figure that would test even the deepest pockets. This strategic move ensures Haaland remains a cornerstone of City’s project unless an extraordinary offer emerges. The clause’s activation is also delayed until 2029, aligning with the halfway point of the contract when Haaland will be 29, still in his prime but with City having maximized his peak years.
The timing of the clause is significant. Manchester City’s ongoing legal battle over the Premier League charges, with a verdict expected soon, looms large. Speculation has swirled about potential penalties, from fines to relegation, though Haaland has dismissed concerns. “I’m not afraid of a potential Manchester City punishment,” he said, citing his long-term contract as evidence of his trust in the club. However, reports suggest the clause could be triggered earlier under specific conditions, such as City failing to qualify for the Champions League or facing relegation due to the charges. “If there were to be a relegation, there would be an option so that Haaland would not play in the English second division,” Romano hinted, underscoring the clause’s role as a safeguard.
Haaland’s commitment comes despite interest from Europe’s elite. Real Madrid, where Haaland once dreamed of playing, views him as a top target, especially with Kylian Mbappé’s arrival in 2024. Barcelona’s Joan Laporta is reportedly prepared to “do everything possible” to sign him if City’s fortunes falter. Yet, Haaland’s recent actions—a £200,000 orange Porsche 911 GT3 purchase and a six-bedroom mansion in Cheshire—signal his intent to settle in Manchester. “Manchester City is a special club,” he reiterated, a sentiment echoed by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, who told Haaland, “We’re going to be together for a long, long time.”
As City navigate a challenging season, with Haaland sidelined for seven weeks due to a left ankle injury sustained in the FA Cup against Bournemouth, his long-term commitment offers stability. His 30 goals in 40 games this season underline his indispensability, even as rivals circle. With the release clause’s high threshold and delayed activation, City have secured their star while leaving just enough room for future possibilities, keeping the football world guessing about Haaland’s next chapter.