Manchester City and Norway striker Erling Haaland has donated a rare 16th-century book of Viking sagas to his home town library in Time, Norway. The 1594 edition of Snorri Sturluson's chronicles, which cost 1.3 million Norwegian crowns (£133,636), set a national record for book sales when Haaland and his father Alf-Inge acquired it at auction in December.
The historic volume, which chronicles the lives of medieval Norse kings, will be permanently displayed at the local library in Time. Haaland said his motivation was to keep the text in his home region of Jaeren, allowing local residents to connect with historical figures from their area. He added: 'I am living my dream, but unfortunately that is reserved for only a few. I have seen how books enable many people to dream and make their dreams come true.'
This philanthropic gesture adds another dimension to the profile of Norway's all-time leading goalscorer. The 25-year-old is currently preparing to lead his country in their first World Cup appearance in 28 years this June.
It comes after Haaland announced his investment in a new global chess tour, aiming to elevate the strategic game to a wider audience. The prolific forward is backing Norway Chess, the organisation behind the forthcoming Total Chess World Championship Tour, which is set to launch next year.
Haaland expressed his enthusiasm for the game, stating: 'Chess is an incredible game. It sharpens your mind, and there are clear similarities to football. You have to think quickly, trust your instincts, and think several moves ahead. Strategy and planning are everything.' He added: 'I'm investing in Norway Chess because I believe the new Total Chess World Championship Tour can turn chess into an even bigger sport for spectators around the world.'
