Manchester United have renewed confidence that they can win the transfer race for Erling Haaland following the deal to bring Ralf Rangnick to the club, according to a report.
Rangnick is set to take charge of his first match as United manager on Thursday when they play Arsenal in the Premier League. The German has agreed an imminent move to Old Trafford as interim boss until the end of the season.
However, as part of the move, the 63-year-old will stay at the club in a consultancy role for two years. United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward reportedly pushed for such an arrangement.
Previous reports have revealed how Rangnick sees player exits as his January priority at Old Trafford.
According to the Sunday Mirror, though, United feel confident of landing a major signing in Haaland next summer with Rangnick’s help.
When he moves into his consultancy role, he will work with United on transfers. And Dortmund striker Haaland is one of their biggest targets.
United plan to use Rangnick’s relationship with the Norwegian to bring him to Old Trafford.
Indeed, the German – who previously oversaw operations at RB Leipzig and RB Salzburg – helped bring Haaland to Salzburg from Molde. Rangnick is consequently also well in with Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge.
The Sun on Sunday have a similar story. They claim that while former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – Haaland’s fellow Norwegian and former coach at Molde – had inspired hope of his signing while in charge.
However, Rangnick’s arrival is driving a whole new level of belief. Should United sign Haaland, they would be beating the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City to his signature.