Sources: Man City could sign new striker in Jan after Erling Haaland injury update
Man City could enter the market for a new striker in January if Erling Haaland’s foot injury worsens, sources have told Football Insider.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that “the money is there” if Pep Guardiola wants to dip into the transfer market in January.
It is believed there is no massive rush to get any deals over the line in mid-season, but injuries could dictate City’s transfer policy as they lag behind title rivals.
Haaland missed out on the 2-1 win over Luton on Sunday (10 December) entirely after an injury to his foot.
Speaking post-match, Guardiola confirmed the problem was “week-to-week” rather than a more long-term issue, and claimed he could even return against Crystal Palace on Saturday (16 December).
He revealed the Norway international is suffering with a “bone stress reaction” but insisted nothing is fractured.
City’s manager explained the problem was incurred in the midweek defeat at Aston Villa. “The day after he almost could not walk properly. Yesterday I spoke with him [Erling] and he said he was feeling much, much better, that he could walk without pain. The doctor says we have to see week by week, day by day how it will get better. Maybe he will be ready for Crystal Palace, I don’t think so but we will see.”
Haaland has scored 19 goals across 22 games in all competitions this season – his second campaign at the Etihad Stadium.
Julian Alvarez is the only other recognised striker in Guardiola’s squad but is a completely different profile of forward to free-scoring Haaland.
Alvarez has been playing mostly in an attacking midfielder berth this season and has notched eight goals and eight assists in all competitions.
City sit fourth in the Premier League and are four points adrift of first-place Liverpool.
Guardiola’s side face Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League on Wednesday (13 December) but are almost certain to be without Haaland.
In other news, big update on Newcastle United and Tottenham race to sign Man City star.