Pep Guardiola tells Erling Haaland he 'isn't stupid enough' to consider Barcelona transfer after signing 10-year Man City contract as legendary manager admits he 'understands' former club's interest

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has reportedly placed Haaland at the top of his transfer wish list as part of his re-election campaign. The Catalan giants are said to dream of pairing the 25-year-old with their next generation of stars, including Lamine Yamal and Pedri. However, Haaland’s recent contract extension keeps him at City until 2034, making any potential move highly unlikely, and Guardiola doesn't believe the Norwegian will be headed anywhere in the near future.

Guardiola dismissed speculation with trademark humour, pointing to Haaland’s intelligence and ambition. "I think Erling isn’t stupid enough to sign something he doesn’t want to accomplish, that is for sure," he said. "But it's football, who knows what is going to happen. Nobody knows. Honestly, I don’t know what is going to happen. I know he has a long contract here, and I think he’s doing really well and scoring a lot of goals."

Guardiola acknowledged Laporta’s admiration, noting that any club would want a striker of Haaland’s quality. "Can you tell me one club that wouldn’t dream of Erling Haaland?" he added. "I understand Barcelona dream of Erling, and all the clubs in the world. If Erling would not be with us it would be a dream for Man City have Erling. "I had the feeling the team helps him a lot and gives him a lot of actions where he is able to score a goal."

Haaland is expected to lead the line again for the near future as City continue their push for domestic and European glory. With his contract running until 2034, Guardiola remains confident the striker’s long-term future lies at the Etihad.