Manchester City stars could leave for Real Madrid, Barcelona and Premier League rivals

Manchester City face the possibility of severe sanctions, including relegation from the Premier League, after being found guilty of serious financial rule breaches – a punishment that could trigger a mass departure of leading players.

The Premier League said City were guilty of all charges relating to serious financial violations and most of those concerning a failure to co-operate with its investigation. It concluded that the club had arranged “false contracts” and falsified financial records involving more than £900m between 2009 and 2018.

No punishment has yet been decided and Manchester City can still appeal. However, if the Premier League imposes its maximum sanctions on the eight-time champions, the club could struggle to retain their best players.

Here are some of the possible destinations for City’s leading names in the worst-case scenario.

Erling Haaland – Real Madrid and Barcelona

Real Madrid and Barcelona are both understood to be interested in signing Erling Haaland if the opportunity arises. The Norwegian striker has scored 169 goals in 205 matches for City, ensuring he would have no shortage of major offers if he decided to leave Etihad Stadium.

Jeremy Doku – Arsenal

There is no indication that Arsenal are actively pursuing Jeremy Doku, but the Emirates Stadium could suit the Belgium winger. Arsenal need a new left winger after losing Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in the summer, while Doku would represent the improvement Mikel Arteta wants.

Arsenal have previously signed players from Manchester City when they lost their places at Etihad Stadium. Their status as Premier League champions, combined with City’s uncertain position, could help Arteta attract a major player in his prime.

Elliot Anderson and Enzo Fernandez

Manchester United wanted Elliot Anderson this summer before he moved to their local rivals for £116m. A sanction against City could allow United to re-enter the race, although reports in Spain claim Barcelona and Real Madrid are also monitoring him.

Enzo Fernandez, who cost City £125m this summer, is another player linked with both Spanish giants. Real Madrid were interested in him during the summer and the Argentina midfielder was keen on the move, meaning talks could be revived if the opportunity returns.

Gianluigi Donnarumma and Rayan Cherki

Bayern Munich are searching for a long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer, who will turn 41 this season, and have reportedly considered Gianluigi Donnarumma. Manchester United looked at the Italy goalkeeper last year before he joined City, while Chelsea may also be interested because Emiliano Martinez appears to be a temporary answer to their goalkeeping problems.

Rayan Cherki has become one of Europe’s most exciting players since joining City last summer. Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly interested, while Paris Saint-Germain could appeal because of his previous Ligue 1 experience and their preference for assembling attacking talent.

Other possible departures

Liverpool competed to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace before he joined City in last season’s winter transfer window and could return if a points deduction, relegation or expulsion prompts him to seek a fresh start.

Josko Gvardiol is reportedly wanted by Real Madrid and Barcelona, although his new five-year contract, signed last July, could complicate any move.

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola may also want to reunite with Antoine Semenyo, having worked with him at Bournemouth. Arsenal have previously shown interest in the winger too.