Arsenal and Real Madrid have made contact with representatives of Erling Haaland after reports that Manchester City were found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules, sources have told Football Insider.
The reported development has raised questions over Haaland’s future at the Etihad Stadium and prompted interest from two of Europe’s leading clubs. Sources said Arsenal and Real Madrid moved quickly to inquire about the 26-year-old’s situation.
Reports on Friday said an independent panel had found City guilty of 114 of the 115 financial charges brought against them by the Premier League. City have consistently denied wrongdoing since legal proceedings began in 2023 and are now beginning an appeal process.
The club’s possible sanctions remain uncertain, but the outcome could include relegation from the top flight. That prospect has cast doubt over the futures of City’s highest earners, including Haaland.
Haaland’s contract at City runs until 2034 and is not understood to contain a relegation clause. Even so, Arsenal and Real Madrid are said to be monitoring whether the situation could open the door to a move.
Arsenal have long sought a long-term solution at striker, while Real Madrid were interested in Haaland before he joined City in 2022. Sources indicated that initial contact has been made over a possible move in 2027, though no formal offer has been reported.
Barcelona had also retained an interest in Haaland before the reported verdict, according to sources cited by Football Insider. However, Arsenal and Real Madrid have now emerged as the most active parties.
City’s on-field form has not been affected by the off-field uncertainty. Haaland has scored seven goals in as many club games this season and added a brace for Norway in their Nations League win over Denmark on Thursday.
If City are forced into the Championship, or even lower, the club would likely need to make significant sales. A demotion to League Two has also been described as a possibility.
Haaland was reportedly withdrawn from Norway media duties this weekend after news of the reported guilty findings emerged. He previously addressed the charges after signing a contract extension in January 2025.
“No, I haven’t thought of that or anything,” Haaland said at the time. “I am confident that the club know what they are doing and I really don’t think I should speak too much about this.”
City continue to deny all wrongdoing as their appeal gets underway. Arsenal and Real Madrid, meanwhile, appear ready to test whether the uncertainty at the Etihad could lead to one of the most significant transfers in recent memory.
