Transfer News: Borussia Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl confident of retaining Erling Haaland amidst interest from Chelsea
Speaking to Goal (h/t football.london), Borussia Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl explained that he is confident of retaining Erling Haaland next summer amidst transfer interest from Chelsea.
The 21-year-old has been immaculate in the last two years, as he has bagged 70 goals in 69 games for the Signal Iduna Park outfit. However, they stand the risk of losing him next summer once his release clause kicks in.
Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Real Madrid are interested in signing the player since he is likely to guarantee goals for a long time to come. However, Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl has no interest in letting their prized asset leave any time soon.
He revealed that efforts are being made to convince Haaland that Dortmund remains the club for him. The Germans are keen to hand him an atmosphere where he can further develop his skills.
“Of course, we are trying to give him the feeling that Borussia Dortmund continues to be a top address for him and that he can still develop here.”
Kehl goes on to add that Dortmund could retain some hope of convincing the player to stay put. While nothing is decided yet, he joked that a wager of €100 could be made on the Norwegian staying. Strictly speaking, that is not a lot of money for him to assure fans of the same.
“Maybe we can still convince him. We will fight for him. We will try everything. The decision has not yet been made, but I would bet €100 [on him staying].”
Chelsea can cope without Haaland
The Norwegian international is as good as they get but could be surplus to requirements at the West London club. Thomas Tuchel has a wide array of attacking talent to choose from already, not to mention that he also added to it in the summer by bringing in Romelu Lukaku.
Timo Werner is also starting to find his feet, while Kai Havertz is only going to get better. Callum Hudson-Odoi is finally playing to his potential, and Mason Mount is bound to kick-start his season soon, after a wonderful campaign last season.
Moreover, this season has also taught us that goals are coming from everywhere. Our full-backs are incredible in the attacking phase of the game while Mateo Kovacic and Ruben Loftus Cheek are becoming adept creators. Our defence has also contributed massively to our goal tally this season.
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Thus, for all of Haaland’s qualities, the Blues might not be bruising if they fail to land his signature next summer. However, it could turn into an issue if one of our title rivals sign him, which is not a concerning issue as the centre-forward apparently prefers a move to Real Madrid.