Roman Abramovich releases funds to sign 41-goal striker

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has reportedly released funds for the signing of Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland.

Haaland had a superb 2020/21 campaign for Dortmund, registering 41 goals and 12 assists from 41 matches across all competitions.

He has a £70m release clause that becomes active in June 2022, but Dortmund are adamant that they won't sell him for a higher fee this summer.

Despite this, the Blues are refusing to give up. According to Bild, Abramovich is serious about the prospect of landing the Norwegian.

He has released funds of around £150 million. The figure could be sufficient to convince Dortmund to part ways with the 20-year-old.

Still, a deal won't be straightforward. His agent Mina Raiola is expected to demand brokerage fees of more than £35 million.

The Blues are likely to make a formal approach in the near future. It remains to be seen whether they can pull off the deal.

Haaland has also been on the radar of Manchester City, but they are reluctant to spend big amid Financial Fair Play concerns.