Manchester City Considering Legal Action Over Erling Haaland Transfer Claims

Manchester City are contemplating taking legal action after a Real Madrid presidential candidate promised to sign their striker Erling Haaland.

Enrique Riquelme - a renewable energy magnate who is challenging current president Florentino Perez for the position - unveiled a Real Madrid shirt bearing Haaland's name while on television on Wednesday, saying: "He has a release clause and would like to join Real Madrid. If I become president, he will play for Real Madrid."

A swift denial was issued in a joint statement by Haaland's father and agent, before City rubbished the suggestion.

"The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are untrue," the statement read. "There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it.

"We are considering legal action for the use of our player image in this context."

Enrique also pledged to sign City midfielder Rodri, adding: "He is a great player, in a position where Madrid need to strengthen.

"We have spoken to his agent. We have to respect his club, but if I'm president he will play for Madrid. I will do everything possible."

Riquelme has challenged Perez in the election – the first time in 20 years Perez has not stood unopposed – following two seasons in which the club has won no major trophies.

The 37-year-old has run on a campaign of vast giveaways, including a promise to build a members' city for fans of the club in the area surrounding the training base, and reducing the annual membership fee by up to 50% if the team does not win the Champions League next season.

He also opposes Perez's decision to hire Jose Mourinho as the club's manager. That appointment can only be formally confirmed if Perez wins the election.

Riquelme, and the team behind his campaign, has hinted that former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is their main target for the position.

When asked about Klopp in an interview with The Athletic last month, Riquelme said: "Naturally, I would love for profiles of that calibre, and others like them, to coach this club."

Just under 100,000 members are eligible to vote in the election, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 7 June.

The vote was called by Perez himself, in an attempt secure a renewed mandate following a period of on-field unrest and disapproval in the stands at the Santiago Bernabeu. He is considered the overwhelming favourite to win.

More to follow.