Manchester City believe they can sign Erling Haaland ahead of Chelsea

Manchester City believe they can beat Chelsea to the signing of Erling Haaland, if they win the Premier League this season.

The Cityzens are currently top of the standings with 47 points, three ahead of second-placed Manchester United with the game in hand.

Hence, they are widely regarded as the front-runners to lift the English crown for the third time in four seasons.

According to The Star, the Mancunian giants are looking for an elite striker to replace Sergio Aguero whose contract expires in June.

Haaland has been identified as one of the top targets, but the Blues are also understood to be interested in the Norwegian.

The striker currently has a £68m buy-out clause on his Borussia Dortmund deal which will become active in 18 months' time.

Pep Guardiola's side are willing to pay a significant fee of more than £100m to prise the marksman away from the German side.

Furthermore, there is the belief that they can lure him ahead of Chelsea, if they are crowned the English champions this term.