Barcelona President Laporta Rules Out Haaland Signing Amid Squad Rebuild

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ruled out an immediate move for Erling Haaland, citing the striker's recent contract extension with Manchester City and Barcelona's current transfer strategy focused on financial prudence and youth development. While Laporta acknowledged that "almost nothing is impossible," he stressed that Barcelona is not actively pursuing Haaland at this time, with transfer decisions left to sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick. The club aims to reinforce every squad line in the upcoming summer window, particularly addressing the striker position as Robert Lewandowski approaches 37 and has shown signs of decline. Barcelona's approach centers on a mix of strategic signings and promoting academy talent, especially after their U-19 squad's recent UEFA Youth League success. Although Haaland remains a coveted figure in world football and Barcelona's interests have been noted historically, the club's priorities revolve around sustainability and squad consolidation rather than marquee signings currently. Laporta's comments keep the door slightly open for the future, but immediate Haaland recruitment is unlikely.