Ashton United have made an audacious attempt to capture Erling Haaland on loan during his World Cup break, although it seems unlikely they will be able to tempt the Norwegian down to the Northern Premier League.
Haaland is not heading to Qatar as Norway failed to qualify for the World Cup, meaning he has a month out of competitive action while most of his teammates are on international duty.
Ashton United have sensed an opportunity and taken their shot, confirming that they have approached Manchester City over a 28-day loan for their superstar striker.
Manager Michael Clegg said: ‘It just makes sense.
‘City aren’t playing, and we want to help by keeping Erling fit, it makes more sense than him playing golf for six weeks.
‘We think he will be a great fit for us, and would slot in with our squad dynamic really well.’
The 22-year-old has scored 23 goals in 18 games for City since his summer arrival from Borussia Dortmund, so it is no surprise that the side sitting 11th in the Northern Premier League reckon he could improve their fortunes.
Ashton United have only scored 23 goals as an entire team in their 19 league games so far this campaign, so Haaland could probably help them out up top.
The plucky non-league side are awaiting a response from the Premier League champions, although they probably do so more in hope than expectation.
Pep Guardiola said he would prefer his forward to be going to the World Cup than be having a few weeks off, but he didn’t mention anything last week about sending him on loan to non-league.
‘I would prefer for Erling to go with Norway, unfortunately they did not qualify,’ said the Manchester City manager.
‘Hopefully he will recover perfectly from his injury, then [on holiday to] Marbella for a few days, maybe go to Norway and then come back when we come back to training.’
MORE : Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville pick their England World Cup starting XIs
MORE : Pep Guardiola explains why Erling Haaland only on the bench for Man City vs Fulham
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