Erling Haaland scouting mission confirmed amid Arsenal interest

12 Oct 2026 10:57 BST 2 min read

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

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Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly both sent scouts to watch Erling Haaland in action during Manchester City’s 3-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

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The Norway striker has been at the centre of significant transfer speculation since Man City were found guilty of 114 financial breaches, and rumours suggest that he is one of several stars who may depart the Etihad Stadium if the club are relegated from the Premier League.

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FootballTransfers understands that Arsenal will explore a possible deal if Haaland becomes available next year, while Barcelona and Real Madrid have also been linked, having kept close tabs on the striker’s situation for the past few seasons.

In fact, both Spanish giants sent club scouts to watch Haaland against Liverpool on Sunday, as per a report from TEAMtalk.

The 26-year-old netted his eighth goal of the season to open the scoring in the 65th minute at Anfield, and Barcelona and Real Madrid are expected to continue monitoring his form ahead of a potential swoop in 2027.

Barcelona officials were also in attendance to keep tabs on Ronald Araujo, who left Camp Nou to join Liverpool on loan over the summer, while Real Madrid were reportedly watching Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister, in addition to Haaland.

What has Erling Haaland said?

Although Haaland has been tipped to leave Man City next year, the Norway superstar was eager to pour cold water on exit rumours ahead of his side’s win over Liverpool.

“They're going to have a good time,” Haaland told Sky Sports when asked what he would say to City supporters before the game.

“We have to stick together. We have to stay with each other, and we have to stay positive. No matter what happens in life, we always have to have a smile. So we have to stay positive, look ahead, and try to win football games and try to enjoy the situation and win the game.

“We have to stick together; we have to spread the love to each other. So yeah: stick together, and enjoy the ride and smile.”

Despite significant interest from a host of top clubs across Europe, Haaland insists that he remains happy at the Etihad Stadium.

“Yeah, I care a lot about this place and the UK generally,” he admitted.

“It’s a special place for us. I care a lot about the city, I have to say. I care a lot about the fans because I'm a fan myself, and I feel with them as well.”