Borussia Dortmund sign Manchester United attacking target

German giants Borussia Dortmund have won the race for wonderkid Erling Braut Haaland from RB Salzburg. 

The Norwegian international burst onto the scene this season following his sensational performances for RB Salzburg both domestically as well as in Europe. 

Manchester United, Juventus and RB Leipzig were all very interested in the 19-year-old but it is Borussia Dortmund, who have finally won the race. 

It is understood that Manchester United offered the best financial package but Haaland is more keen to ensure his development than the money and that is an excellent trait to have for a young player. 

The 19-year-old has put pen to paper on a deal until 2024 at Signal Iduna Park. He is widely regarded as one of the hottest prospects in European football and it is a massive statement from Dortmund to beat a host of big teams across Europe for the youngster's signature. 

"I had intensive discussions with the club management and the sports management, especially with Hans-Joachim Watzke, Michael Zorc and trainer Lucien Favre," said Haaland. 

"There was a feeling right from the start that I absolutely wanted to switch to this club, go this route and play football in this incredible Dortmund atmosphere in front of more than 80,000 spectators. I’m already burning for it," he further added.

Dortmund’s CEO, Hans-Joachim Watzke said: "Despite many offers from absolute top clubs from all over Europe, Erling Haaland decided on the sporting task at BVB and the perspective that we have shown him. Our tenacity has paid off." 

Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc, who led the negotiations, said: "We can all look forward to an ambitious, athletic and physically strong center forward with a pronounced goal instinct and impressive speed, which we would like to develop further in Dortmund. At the age of 19, Erling is of course just beginning a hopefully great career," he added.

The 19-year-old will compete with Paco Alcacer for the starting spot in the number nine role although Marco Reus has  also been used in that position this season. 

Dortmund started this season on a terrific note but have lost the momentum midway around the season as they are seven points behind the league leaders RB Leipzig. 

After losing out on Haaland to Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United must shift their focus elsewhere to reinforce their attack.

Featured image credits - Republic World