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In recent hours, Real Madrid presidential hopeful Enrique Riquelme has asserted that he has secured the signing of Erling Haaland from Manchester City. Reports suggest that the Norwegian striker’s contract includes a clause that could enable a transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu – the key mechanism Riquelme plans to use to finalise what would rank among football’s most monumental deals.

Haaland has been on Real Madrid’s radar for a long time. The Spanish giants were unable to sign him before his move to Manchester City, but have tracked his development in England ever since, preparing for another attempt – precisely what Riquelme aims to achieve if he succeeds in unseating Florentino Perez in Sunday’s presidential election.

Riquelme has reportedly claimed that he has already reached an agreement on personal terms with Haaland’s representatives, which would activate the clause once he takes office. However, the Manchester City star’s camp has quickly dismissed those assertions in statements to football journalist Fabrizio Romano.

“(Riquelme’s comments are) very entertaining but not true. We wish both candidates the best of luck in the Real Madrid elections,” Haaland’s representatives stated.

The idea of bringing Haaland to Madrid is undoubtedly an enticing prospect for many Real Madrid members heading into Sunday’s vote. Riquelme’s announcement could influence some voters, though the rapid rebuttal from the 25-year-old striker’s camp might restore support for Perez, who has already finalised deals for Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries.

Whether Riquelme’s claims hold any truth remains uncertain, but he may not get the opportunity to pursue Haaland’s signing if he fails to win the presidency this weekend. Florentino Perez remains the overwhelming favourite to continue as club president, though the latest developments could still introduce unexpected twists in the race.