KEVIN DE BRUYNE believes Erling Haaland could smash the 800-goal barrier and become one of the greatest scorers of all time.
The Norwegian continued his sensational start to life at Manchester City by scoring against Liverpool in the 3-2 Carabao Cup win on Thursday — making it 24 for the season.
Despite only turning 22 in the summer, he has already rattled home 180 goals in 224 games.
KDB said: “He can probably go to 600, 700 or 800 if he stays fit and does all the same things he is doing.”
Cristiano Ronaldo tops the all-time list with 819 goals, while his old rival Lionel Messi is not far behind on 793.
However, De Bruyne — who has linked up superbly with Haaland at the Etihad — has already seen enough to feel his pal will end his career in that sort of company.
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Midfielder De Bruyne added: “Erling is still a young boy enjoying his life — but he takes football very seriously.
“He loves scoring goals, that is the most unique thing he has.
“It is very hard to compare the strikers I’ve played with, because they are all totally different.
“Of course they play in the same position. But some are physical players — and some are speed demons that can score goals for fun.
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“Erling hasn’t got there yet because of his age — but the others have all scored 300 or 400.
“He is so obsessed with goals, he can maybe go beyond that.”
City have been hugely impressed by Haaland’s personality as well as his quality since he joined them from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.
But — ahead of the champions’ Prem trip to Elland Road tomorrow night — De Bruyne says the star has an edge which sets him apart and that is why he is destined for greatness.
KDB said: “Erling is a top-level striker.
“But he doesn’t take himself too seriously.
“When you talk about professional footballers or professional athletes, I think the top ones all have that extra little edge.
“A little something to become the best version you can.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
