have been forced to admit defeat for a second time in the race to sign from Borussia Dortmund.
The Norwegian goalscoring sensation has endured an injury-interrupted season but his stock continues to rise despite the struggles of the Bundesliga club.
United came close to signing the 21-year-old two-and-a-half years ago when the Premier League club were banking on Haaland’s relationship with his former coach and compatriot, Ole Gunnar Solskajer, to get a deal over the line.
Haaland, however, snubbed United’s interest and joined Dortmund instead, a decision that has been vindicated given his reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers has been firmly cemented.
The former Molde and RB Salzburg star is, however, certain to be on the move again this summer but he has already ruled out Old Trafford as a potential destination.
report that Haaland’s decision is not motivated by money but centres on his concern that United remain ill-equipped to challenge for major honours.
United are set to enter a sixth-year without a trophy after another campaign in which they have flattered to deceive and have been reduced to scrapping for Champions League qualification with Arsenal and Tottenham.
Haaland, whose father played for Manchester City, is, meanwhile, said to be enamoured with the prospect of working for Pep Guardiola, while Real Madrid and Barcelona remain in the hunt.
Erik ten Hag’s imminent appointment as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s long-term successor is unlikely to change Haaland’s stance on a move to United, but a new forward will remain a priority for the incoming Dutchman.
The futures of Marcus Rashford, Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani remain uncertain, while Anthony Martial is likely to be deemed surplus to requirements once he returns from his loan spell at Sevilla.
Harry Kane remains a target while Benfica’s Darwin Nunez is also on United’s radar, although Arsenal are likely to offer competition for the Uruguay international.
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