Manchester City have become reluctant to pay the release clause for Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland up front in any potential transfer, according to a report.
The BVB striker looks set to leave Signal Iduna Park this summer, with the Norwegian's £63m release clause becoming active for potential suitors.
Pep Guardiola's side are one of a number of top European clubs hoping to acquire Haaland's signature for next season, but 90min are reporting that City do not want to pay for the transfer in one lump sum.
The report outlines how City do value the 21-year-old at a far higher price than his clause, but would prefer to spread the transfer cost over a period of time.
In order to do so, the reigning Premier League champions are willing to offer the Bundesliga outfit more money than the clause requires, in order to persuade Dortmund to agree to a separate deal and gain the advantage over rival clubs in the process.
This is an approach that Dortmund are certainly open to according to the report, which would allow them to maximise their return on Haaland.
The striker has managed to net 16 Bundesliga goals in 19 league appearances so far this season, in what has been an injury-hit campaign.
Matthew Tranter
