Man City 'hopeful' some first-XI stars will stay if they are relegated
Manchester City are "hopeful" that some of their established first-team stars would be willing to stay with them if they were relegated, sources have told Football Insider.
The club hierarchy are keeping one eye on planning for the "worst-case scenario," as they appeal against the Premier League's guilty verdict for their 114 charges.
Sources say that relegation is highly likely to result in a "fire sale" at the Etihad Stadium, with several players expected to have multiple offers to leave.
Nevertheless, City remain upbeat over the prospect of some of their more experienced heads being willing to stay and help the club rebuild.
Enzo Maresca's side have reached the first international break with their 100 per cent Premier League record intact, but it is matters away from the pitch that are dominating discussions right now.
Any long-term plans for the squad will have to be put on hold while City await the outcome of their appeal, as their situation could potentially change dramatically.
How long will Man City's appeal process take?
The Premier League have already indicated their guilty verdict to the rest of the member clubs, but City are not prepared to go down without a fight.
The club hierarchy have every intention of appealing against the verdict from the league, which is set to drag the process out even further.
Former Everton chief executive and ex-Premier League board member Keith Wyness told Football Insider last week that he expects the appeal process to take up to three months.
The boardroom expert suggested that timeframe as he expects City to appeal against the points of law themselves, rather than their guilt.
Nevertheless, the Scottish businessman believes that their chances of overturning the verdict are "tenuous at best."
He also pointed out that heavy fines would follow as part of the punishment, alongside the reputational damage that the club will suffer.
Erling Haaland stay 'inconceivable'
Football Insider revealed on Monday that City's board believe it is "inconceivable" that star striker Erling Haaland will stay at the club if they are relegated.
The Norwegian has already been subject to enquiries from both Arsenal and Real Madrid, and City view their chances of keeping him as non-existent in a relegation scenario.
Sources say that several more of Europe's elite clubs are ready to "pounce" should the 26-year-old become available within the next 12 months.
However, City have Haaland tied down with a long-term contract until 2034, and they have no intention of selling him for a cut-price fee.