Erling Haaland’s transfer priority, World Cup problem and frightening message

One thing is clear when it comes to Erling Haaland - he wants to be the very best.

The Norwegian striker has quickly made developed a reputation for his ruthless streak and emerged as one of the hottest properties in world football.

His journey has been accelerated by the right moves at the right times.

He left Bryne for Molde as a teenager, eventually earning a move to Red Bull Salzburg where he burst onto the scene in 2019 before departing for Borussia Dortmund in January 2020.

Since his move to Germany, Haaland has gone from strength to strength and a host of top clubs are chasing his signature.

It has been widely reported that Haaland will look to prioritise the best sporting project when he does decide to move on, whether that is this summer for big money or when his release clause kicks in next summer.

Speaking in a rare interview with The Telegraph this week, Haaland gave a clear indication of the key factor in his next move - a chance to win the Champions League.

Whilst Chelsea’s recent success in the competition could give them an edge, he will have plenty of options to try and fulfil his "big dream" as soon as possible.

"For as long as I can remember, even when I was a really young kid, I was watching the Champions League," he said.

"There were great teams with huge legends scoring goals. So that became my dream. My dream was to play in the Champions League, to score in the Champions League.

"You know that is where the best players play and that’s where the best players belong.”

He added: "That’s my big dream. To win the Champions League one day. Hopefully I can lift that trophy and that really would be, well, amazing.”

Haaland’s emphasis on the Champions League could be increased by the fact he is facing the prospect of being banned from the FIFA World Cup.

Whilst the tournament represents the biggest International stage for Haaland to enhance his legacy, Norway could boycott the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Norwegian publication  NRK  say that the NFF will hold a vote on Sunday when they will reach their final decision over whether or not they will boycott next winter's tournament.

Players including Haaland have voiced disapproval over the tournament being held in Qatar due to the nation’s questionable human rights record, wearing t-shirts criticising the decision before matches.

According to reports, FIFA could threaten to ban Norway from the 2026 World Cup as part of sanctions, which would leave Haaland with no chance to compete in a World Cup until 2030.

By that stage, he would be 30 years old and it is therefore no surprise the Champions League currently holds plenty of focus.

Regardless of where Haaland ends up, he looks set to have a big part to play in the European football landscape for years to come.

And that was summed up by a frightening message to conclude his Telegraph interview as he pointed out he has plenty of scope for improvement.

Which raises one final question, how far is he from his peak?

“I am still only 20 years old!” Haaland said when asked how far he is from his peak. “So I think that says it all.”