Erling Braut Haaland became Europe’s most in demand striker this week by scoring a fantastic hat-trick in the Champions League this week.
The Red Bull Salzburg striker netted three goals in the first half in a 6-2 win over Genk.
Haaland, 19, used to play under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Molde, and it was under the United boss that he made his debut.
Solskjaer was asked about Haaland at his press conference on Wednesday. He told The Express: “It was nice watching the game last night. It was great watching him. Everyone in Norway is excited about his development.”
Open to it
Solskjaer is clearly paying attention, and United are in pole position thanks to him.
Haaland’s dad is Alf Inge Haaland, formerly of Leeds and Manchester City, the defender who had an infamous run in with Roy Keane.
Despite this, and his son apparently supporting Leeds, where he was born, Haaland Sr has told the Norwegian press that he would put any of his own club rivalries aside in the interests of his son’s career.
He told Norwegian outlet TV2 on Wednesday about Erling potentially joining United: “It would be nice. It is important to distinguish between being a supporter and a job. So I have a very relaxed relationship with that. It’s a little different when it’s serious.”
He added: “Yes, I think most players dream of being in the Premier League at one time or another. It’s the league that gets the most attention around, and it’s very good quality of the teams. There is no doubt the Premier League is attractive to him.”
It sounds like United is a possibility, and the club’s best shot is clearly while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is manager of the club. It’s good to know United isn’t a no-go.
Phenomenal scoring record
Haaland’s scoring record is quite sensational. His hat-trick this week was his fourth of the season already.
He was the first player since Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick on his Champions League debut.
This season Haaland has scored 17 goals in 11 games for Red Bull Salzburg. At just 19-years-old, he looks to be quite special.
This summer he scored nine goals in one game for Norway’s under-20 side against Honduras, showing a ruthless streak.
Asked about a potential move in January, Haaland Sr said: “I do not know. I have no clue.”
United would be smart to enquire, and make an offer, because his value is only going to soar further in years to come.
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