Watzke vents frustration over speculation about Haaland's future
Hans-Joachim Watzke is tired of responding to rumors about Erling Haaland's future.
Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke is annoyed by the constant speculation surrounding Erling Haaland's future.
Haaland's deal expires in 2024, but the striker has a release clause that would allow him to leave for a fee reported to be between €75-90 million at the end of the season.
Asked about the chances of keeping him beyond the summer, Watzke told Sky Germany (via BVB Buzz):
"I don't know, you'll have to ask Erling Haaland and not me. The only thing that annoys me is the media. Haaland can't do anything about it, neither can I. Still, we have to answer this crap every day. It's just the way it is."
"I've given up judging media rumours. Otherwise, my day would have to have 36 hours," the BVB chief said in a separate interview with Sport Bild (via Goal.com).
Manchester City are among the clubs said to be interested in Haaland, and should 'The Citizens' indeed make a move for the Norwegian international, Watzke knows that their offer would be unmatchable for Dortmund.
"We don't currently know anything specific from the player side, nor has anyone approached us. However, we cannot keep up financially if Manchester City come knocking," he said.