Erling Haaland’s buyout clause and why Real Madrid interest justifies Manchester United’s fears

Manchester United ultimately backed out of a move for Erling Haaland when Mino Raiola tried to insert a buyout clause in the proposed deal to sign him from Red Bull Salzburg.

And Real Madrid’s pursuit of the Norway starlet this summer only confirms the fears Old Trafford’s hierarchy held.

While Haaland and his representatives insist the 19-year-old believed his development would be better served at Borussia Dortmund, United insiders felt such a deal would set a dangerous precedent.

Their fear was that Raiola would effectively control his next move – and with the fee believed to be in the region of £50million United refused to leave themselves in such a vulnerable position.

While there might have been an element of face-saving on their part after missing out on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top January target, Real’s interest justifies their misgivings.

It is believed Haaland has no plans to leave Dortmund this summer after making a stunning start to life in the Bundesliga, despite Raiola’s confirmation that he plans to take a “great player” to the Bernabeu in the next transfer window. It is also unclear whether the buyout is enforceable so soon after his £17m move in January.

“He has a lot to improve yet,” Raiola told Marca. “He’ll be at Dortmund for as long as he needs to be.

“It’s true that he is a footballer who is anticipating the stages of growth faster than you might think. I don’t think he’ll be leaving Dortmund this summer.”

Right now Paul Pogba looks a likelier candidate to join the Spanish giants - even though United have serious doubts about anyone meeting their £150m valuation.

But if Real come up with a big enough offer for Haaland, will Dortmund or the striker be able to resist?