Manchester City are reportedly 'optimistic' that they will win the race to sign Borussia Dortmund forward Erling Braut Haaland.
With the Norway international possessing a release clause in the region of £63m, a number of top European clubs are expected to make formal bids over the coming weeks and months.
If reports are to be believed, City and Real Madrid are the two frontrunners for the 21-year-old, who has still managed to score 23 goals during an injury-hit campaign.
According to ESPN, the Premier League leaders feel that they will be able to edge out Los Blancos at the negotiating table.
As well as City believing that they can put together a strong financial package due to recent player sales, the report suggests that they feel the temptation to work with Pep Guardiola could also sway Haaland.
The same outlet states that Real are also prepared to prioritise the addition of Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe, who is currently due to become a free agent.
Darren Plant
