Erling Haaland's Man City stay 'inconceivable,' clubs ready to 'pounce' after agreement
Manchester City will continue to demand "top dollar" for striker Erling Haaland, even if they are relegated from the Premier League, sources have told Football Insider.
There is a feeling at the Etihad Stadium that it is "inconceivable" that the 26-year-old would stay and play Championship football, but the club won't accept a cut-price deal.
Sources say that several of Europe's leading clubs are "ready to pounce" on a deal for the Norwegian if City are relegated.
However, the frontman is tied down in Manchester until the summer of 2034, and City are aware that they are under no pressure to sell on the cheap.
They are planning a similar stance for the rest of their key players, and are not prepared to cash in for low fees regardless of their potential punishment.
Football Insider revealed last weekend that both Arsenal and Real Madrid have already made contact for Haaland, but it is understood that it will not be "easy" for either to get a deal done.
Man City protected by Erling Haaland agreement
City are well placed to secure a huge fee for Haaland, even if they are hit by the worst-case scenario of relegation from the Premier League.
The former Borussia Dortmund man only agreed a new contract at the Etihad back in January 2025, and it could keep him at City until he turns 34.
Football Insider also revealed on Monday that neither Haaland nor any of his senior teammates have relegation release clauses in their contracts, which closes off another avenue for a potential departure.
City can also be sure that the level of interest in their star man would help to keep the price for his signature high.
It has already become clear that none of the elite clubs will be able to poach the striker on the cheap and take advantage of City's plight.
Nevertheless, the club are under no illusions that Haaland would not be willing to stay put and help them fight their way back to the top.
Barcelona also ready to swoop for Haaland
Football Insider revealed earlier in September that Barcelona are also plotting a move for Haaland, and that was prior to the Premier League's verdict coming to late.
The Catalan giants have held the 26-year-old up as a "dream" signing for several years now, and may finally have the perfect chance to get him.
However, it has quickly become clear that they would to battle almost every elite club in European football to secure the forward's services.
Haaland has become the world's leading frontman during his time at City, and now that the door is ajar for him to leave, everybody will be chasing a deal.