Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has spent £100,000 (1.3 million Norwegian kroner) on a rare book at auction, only to immediately donate it to his home municipality of Time, Norway. The purchase, made in December, set a record as the most expensive Norwegian book ever sold.
The book is a unique 1594 edition of Snorre Sturlason's Royal Sagas, which details the history of medieval Norse kings, including Viking kings, queens, farmers, and warriors. It was auctioned by Norwegian businessman and bibliophile Johan Fredrik Odfjell.
Haaland, who admitted he is not a big reader, said in a press release: 'I have never been a big reader, but I want the book to always be open, so that you can read about those who came from my area, from Bryne and Jæren.' He added, 'I've been lucky enough to live out my dream through football, and I know not everyone gets that chance. Books give so many more people the chance to dream big, see new possibilities and find their own path.'
The book will be placed on permanent display at the Bryne library, with the condition that it remains accessible to the public. Time Municipality announced that Haaland and his father Alfie made the purchase. Mayor Andreas Vollsund expressed gratitude, saying, 'We are extremely grateful for this incredibly generous gift. Erling and Alfie are giving us the opportunity to do one of the most important things we can do for our young people: give them the joy of reading.'
Haaland is currently on international duty with Norway, preparing to face Switzerland after a 2-1 loss to the Netherlands. In other news, reports claim he also purchased a rare Mercedes Maybach Virgil Abloh, a limited-edition car costing over £400,000.
