Erling Haaland to lead Man City exodus - 'all the top stars' to go

Manchester City are planning to lose multiple star players if they are kicked out of the Premier League, sources have told Football Insider.

After the Premier League published their statement announcing that Man City have been found guilty of all 115 financial charges, they are now awaiting a decision on sacntions.

One possibility could see them immediately relegated, and he likes of Erling Haaland, 26, Phil Foden and Rayan Cherki have all been subject to speculation in recent days as a result.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, most of Man City's stars are keen to remain playing at the highest level, and will leave the club to do so if needed.

While it is currently unclear what the punishment would entail, it has been claimed that a heavy points dedcution and relegation to the Championship or even League Two are possible.

Reports elsewhere, meanwhile, have claimed Man City players are already considering legal action if they miss out on bonuses as a result of the club's off-field actions.

Why are Man City fearing a mass exodus?

Football Insider revealed on 28 September that Man City's star players do not have relegation release clauses in their contracts which could prevent quick exits and cut-price fees.

However, it will do little to keep big-name players at the club if they decide to seek a move away, and many are expected to do that if they are kicked out of the top flight.

Man City are preparing behind the scenes for potential ramifications of the verdict, but are also preparing to appeal the decision as they maintain their innocence.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "100 per cent, a number of players will be looking to leave Man City if they are hit with relegation.

"As you said, it'll be all their top stars. The likes of Erling Haaland have already been mentioned. These top clubs across Europe will be keeping a watching the situation at City to see what does happen to the club.

"The vultures will be circling and clubs are ready to pounce if the door opens meaning that Man City's players could be available.

"If City are demoted down the leagues, meaning that they can't qualify for the Champions League as well, these players you'd imagine at some point will want to move on.

"These players have joined Man City to play at the highest level to compete for trophies and if that's not the case going forward then it's inevitable that some players will have to leave and will seek moves away."

Which players could stay at Man City?

Despite the ongoing speculation about which players could be allowed to leave Man City, given the level of interest in their star names, some could instead opt to stay.

Speculation about the futures of the likes of Haaland and Cherki have led to links with some of Europe's top clubs, but there is less certainty about Foden's future at the club.

Football Insider revealed on 27 September that Foden could stick by Man City regardless of what the future holds given his passion and loyalty to the club.

Recent seasons have been a rollercoaster for Foden, but trusting him with firing Man City back to the Premier League may be the boost of confidence needed to regain his form.

The England international has been compared to Juventus legend Alessandro Del Pierro, who stuck with his club when they suffered relegation in 2006.