Erling Haaland has narrowed down his list of potential new headline sponsors to just two brands, with Puma now reportedly out of the race to sign the Norway international.
The Manchester City forward is widely regarded as being one of the most marketable footballers on the planet.
His rise to the very top of the game over the past few seasons has driven that matter, and puts him alongside the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi as some of the most sought-after players on the planet for brands.
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However, following the expiry of his deal with Nike, the former Borussia Dortmund frontman has been on a highly-publicised search for a new headline sponsor.
Speaking this week to Globo Esporte, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Erling Haaland's representative Rafaela Pimenta has hinted at a record-breaking conclusion being right around the corner.
Pimenta said, “When I started 20 years ago, I would never have reached the sponsorship numbers that we are discussing today for (Erling) Haaland."
She continued, "We will be announcing, very soon, Haaland’s new sponsor and it’s the biggest sports sponsorship deal in football history!
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"But I’m sure that three years from now, when I look at this contract, I’ll say: ‘What a horrible contract’, right?"
A new development on the situation surrounding Haaland and his upcoming new sponsor has emerged in Norwegian media this week, revealing a significant change in terms of potential suitors.
According to the information of TV2, Erling Haaland and his entourage are yet to make a final decision on his next sponsorship deal, despite intense interest from two major brands.
However, it is revealed that Puma - the kit manufacturer and major sponsor of Manchester City - are now out of the race to sign the Norway international striker.
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That leaves Nike - Haaland's former boot sponsor, as well as Adidas in the hunt for the player's much-coveted signature.
Ultimately, a decision is not too far away from being made, and as TV2 highlight, that decision will be as much about the way the Erling Haaland's team wants to build a brand, as the financial aspect of any deal.
As is the case with the majority of major sponsorship deals, TV2 also reveal that in addition to a 'hefty guarantee sum' from the successful brand, the agreement will have a number of bonus schemes.
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This is expected to feature everything from a Ballon d'Or win, to the number of goals scored, as well as performances for the national team to determine a grand total.
Erling Haaland will of course be out of action during the World Cup, following Norway's failure to qualify for the competition.
This will offer Manchester City a huge boost upon their return to action in the Carabao Cup fourth round before Christmas, with the centre-forward having an extended break in comparison to some of his club teammates.
Topics: Erling Haaland, Manchester City, Norway, PUMA, Nike, Adidas, Premier League, Football
Freddie Pye