Erling Haaland has told his close friends that he will remain at Dortmund for at least another year, in a fresh blow to the transfer plans of Chelsea, according to reports.
The Norwegian striker is one of the hottest players in world football and has earned interest from almost every elite club in Europe.
Chelsea have been the likeliest destination for Haaland this summer transfer window as Thomas Tuchel is desperate to sign a world-class striker.
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The Blues frequently misfired after the German coach took over from Frank Lampard midway through last campaign, despite their outstanding run to Champions League triumph.
Jorginho was Chelsea’s highest scorer in the Premier League, although all seven of his goals came from the penalty spot.
And, Timo Werner scored just six top-flight goals and Haaland is viewed as a major upgrade on the Germany international, whose better displays have come in a wider position.
Manchester City are also scouring the transfer market for a striker after seeing long-serving striker Sergio Aguero leave for Barcelona on a free transfer.
However, the Premier League teams have suffered a setback as Haaland is believed to have told his close associates and representatives that he will remain at Dortmund, according to ESPN.
The Bundesliga club’s huge £150m asking price was already proving to be a stumbling block for interested clubs and there are few teams in world football who could finance such a deal this year.
He now seems set to stay for another season, but the silver lining for clubs is that Haaland’s transfer fee will fall drastically next summer transfer window.
A £64m release clause in the player’s contract will become active in 2022, meaning that Dortmund could end up losing out on almost £100m.
