Manchester City has apparently set their sights on Chelsea-linked forward Viktor Gyökeres as a possible replacement for star striker Erling Haaland, and they are bracing themselves for the possibility of Real Madrid making a move for him. While Real Madrid is concentrating on acquiring Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alphonso Davies, Fichajes claims that they are also keeping an eye on Haaland in the long run, hoping to put together a dream assault with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior.
Even though City is still hopeful that it will be able to hold onto Haaland into the summer of 2025, they are well aware that elite teams like as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and even Saudi Arabian teams are becoming increasingly interested. The Premier League winners are searching for forwards who can step into Haaland’s shoes as a precaution, and Gyökeres has shown promise top candidate.
City scouts think the Swedish striker, who has been playing brilliantly for Sporting CP, has the potential to be one of Europe’s best goal scorers, even though he is not quite on Haaland’s level yet. Gyökeres has scored an amazing 43 goals in 50 games since joining Sporting in July 2023, and he has scored 12 more goals already this season. Gyökeres might succeed and reach new heights in his game with a City team that generates countless opportunities.
Man City is not the only team interested in the Swedish forward, though. He is being watched by Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, who consider him as a great replacement for Victor Osimhen. Even if Sporting asked €100 million in the summer for Gyökeres, if the player pushes, that amount may decrease for a move to an elite club.
Naturally, City supporters would rather see Haaland stay at the Etihad. Haaland is reportedly willing to extend his contract, but he wants a £100 million release clause. Barcelona has also expressed interest in signing him, but it may be difficult to persuade Haaland to pick them over Madrid given Madrid’s capacity to provide numerous Champions League possibilities.
In related news, Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad is attracting more interest from City following Liverpool’s unsuccessful attempts to buy the midfield player this summer. Samuele Ricci of Torino responded to transfer rumors that suggested he could join Man City as a possible replacement for Rodri.