Five of Manchester City’s most valuable assets could be packing their bags next summer, with Europe’s elite circling like vultures.
Manchester City’s recent guilty verdict on 114 of 115 Premier League financial charges has sent shockwaves through the club, and with it, whispers of a potential exodus from the Etihad.
The Citizens plan to launch an appeal and insist there is no immediate need to sell players. However, the uncertainty surrounding possible sanctions means several high-profile players could be on the move next summer.
Their age, contract situations, and the interest from Europe’s elite make Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Enzo Fernandez the most likely candidates to depart the Etihad.
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland has been nothing short of sensational for Manchester City since his €60 million arrival from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, netting 169 goals and providing 30 assists in 205 appearances.
Reportedly, the 26-year-old Norwegian striker does not have a relegation clause in his long-term contract, and City maintain they are relaxed about his future despite the controversy. However, his representatives have previously stated that playing in La Liga is an ambition, and both Barcelona and Real Madrid are exploring moves for the striker in 2027.
Barcelona appear to be the most plausible destination, as they are searching for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski and already have former City midfielder Rodri at Camp Nou. Real Madrid, despite having Kylian Mbappe, could undergo significant changes next summer if Jose Mourinho fails to deliver a major title, potentially making room for Haaland.
Bayern Munich have also joined the race, viewing the Norwegian as a potential successor to Harry Kane, although their pursuit depends on when the England captain departs. With European giants circling, Haaland’s future remains the most talked-about storyline in football.
Ruben Dias
Ruben Dias has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s defence since his £65 million move from Benfica in 2020, making 262 appearances and contributing 12 goals. The 29-year-old Portuguese international was handed the captaincy for the 2026/27 campaign and is expected to play a more prominent role under Enzo Maresca after making only 24 Premier League starts last season.
Despite this, Dias has been linked with a move away from the Etihad of late. Both AC Milan and Inter Milan hve been keen on signing him in recent months. Given the amount of competition at the club, he was already considering his future, and now, with the uncertainty because of the charges, Dias might as well push for the exit.
Dias is in his prime as a footballer, and he certainly won’t want to go down a division or two with City. He wants regular first-team action and opportunity to compete for titles, something that both Serie A giants can offer him. He could even consider a move to the Middle East, if he wants to cash in on the remaining years of his footballing career.
Josko Gvardiol
Josko Gvardiol signed a contract extension with Manchester City until 2031 earlier this year, establishing himself as an important member of Enzo Maresca’s squad. The 24-year-old Croatian international can operate at centre-back and left-back, giving him considerable value in a modern defensive system, and his technical ability and versatility have made him an attractive profile for elite European clubs.
Barcelona and Real Madrid have been monitoring the Croat for a long time, although there is currently no indication that the Citizens are actively looking to sell. However, the guilty verdict could result in the player pushing for an exit.
Gvardiol is the kind of player that would naturally attract attention from clubs such as Barcelona and Real Madrid, regardless of City’s current circumstances, given his age, versatility, and experience at the highest level. If City’s appeal doesn’t get the desired result, clubs monitoring their players could reassess the situation, making Gvardiol a potential target for the Spanish giants.
Enzo Fernandez
Enzo Fernandez’s reported €145 million acquisition from Chelsea has made him one of the most expensive signings in football history, and his presence in Manchester City’s midfield has been transformative.
The 25-year-old Argentine international has quickly become a key figure in Enzo Maresca’s plans, showcasing his exceptional passing range, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of matches. However, his high value and world-class ability have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid showing interest in him in the summer.
Real Madrid once again failed to sign a world-class midfielder who can help control the tempo of games. Fernandez was on their wishlist prior to his move to City, and if the Manchester-based club receive big sanctions, they could revive their interest. Even Bayern Munich could enter the race, as they seek more quality in the centre of the park and the Argentine World Cup winner is one of the best in his position.
Gianluigi Donnarumma
Chelsea, who were interested in Gianluigi Donnarumma last summer before ruling out a move, could revisit their pursuit of the former PSG star as they look to bring an end to their goalkeeping troubles.
The Blues have recently signed Emiliano Martinez, but the Argentine international has not hit the ground running at Stamford Bridge. Since the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner is already 34, the London club could look at the City shot-stopper, who is only 27 and heading into his prime.
Donnarumma’s world-class ability and experience at the highest level make him an appealing target for a club aiming to fight for major trophies. The uncertainty surrounding City’s future could prompt Chelsea to keep tabs on the Italian international.
