According to this news source, Manchester City are really interested in Dortmund's great striker Erling Haaland. However, they are not willing to spend too much to sign him. Maybe the reason why they made a statement like this (if it's not a rumour) could be that they are thinking of signing Harry Kane at the first occasion. Harry Kane is unhappy at Tottenham now and he wants to leave the team as soon as possible. And he would cost less than Haaland to City I guess. 
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/haaland-man-city-transfer-news-22473845
Better Haalad get agreement with Manchester City and both side have important each other, Manchester City still haven't real forward in his team composition on this season after not get agreement with Harry Kane and Haaland is bet option for Manchester City, will hard to get agreement about Haaland value but Manchester City want pay how ever ask by Dortmund and how much salary need by Haaland for playing ay Etihad Stadium.https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/haaland-man-city-transfer-news-22473845