Man Utd's fresh Erling Haaland twist after 'secret meeting' involving Zinedine Zidane

dailystar.co.uk:

Manchester United have been dealt a fresh twist in the saga to sign Erling Haaland this summer - and Zinedine Zidane is involved.The Norway international is firmly the priority target at Old Trafford ahead of the transfer window.But they face a battle to sign the Borussia Dortmund star, who reportedly has a £68million release clause that will come into play in the summer.Manchester City are in the race to snap him up while it remains to be seen what Pep Guardiola’s top ambition is.However, it is Real Madrid leading the chase for the 21-year-old while they also appear to have snapped up Kylian Mbappe in what could be the most deadly duo in years.But there is a twist to the tale that could see United rival the Spanish giants in the battle for Haaland’s signature.According to Marca, Adidas are looking to tie the Norwegian to a deal to represent their brand.Haaland’s contract with Nike came to an end in January and the German sportswear company are looking to take advantage.It is stated that on February 7, a secret meeting took place at Adidas headquarters where the striker and his father were joined by Zidane and Michu - his childhood idol.The aim of the meeting was to convince Haaland to sign while the presence of Zidane was said to be ‘decisive’.United are also locked in a long-term contract with them as their kit suppliers in a £750m deal over 10 years - a record amount for a club.With Haaland tied to their brand, it could provide a clearer pathway for the Red Devils to make a move for the forward.However, Real Madrid will also feel that their efforts to snap the Leeds-born ace up would have received a boost as they also see their kits supplied by Adidas.Pick up tomorrow's Daily Star and get a FREE £2 Shop Bet with.