Liverpool have reportedly emerged as a surprise potential option to snap up striker Erling Haaland if he's forced to leave Manchester City amid Enzo Maresca's side facing potential relegation to the Championship for their alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial rules.
Earlier this week, City were found guilty of 114 breaches during the period between 2009 and 2018. As per the BBC, the Citizens have lodged an appeal, with potential punishments from the Premier League including relegation to the second tier.
On Stick to Football, lawyer Paul Gilroy said that City players, including Haaland, would have the option to terminate their contracts if the club is found to have lied to them. In such a scenario, the Norwegian striker would have a multitude of high-profile suitors, including Premier League clubs and from elsewhere.
Reds legend Jamie Carragher responded to Gilroy (as per TEAMtalk:
“So Liverpool could sign Haaland for free next week?”
“That is a possibility," Gilroy replied. "I’ve seen commentators saying [it is] unlikely; it depends on so many things. What’s the club going to say to the players? How do they sort it out financially? Etc. etc., but arguably, it’s certainly a possibility.”
Graeme Bailey said on TEAMtalk about Haaland's potential destinations if he were to leave the Etihad:
“I was told by an Arsenal source [that] clearly if a player like Haaland comes on the market – as they are one of the biggest clubs in Europe – they’re going to be interested. ... But my understanding is that Erling Haaland wants to go to Spain. Primarily, we’re talking Real Madrid and Barcelona.”
Haaland is currently playing for Norway in the UEFA Nations League.
How has Erling Haaland fared for Manchester City this season?
Wales vs Norway - UEFA Nations League 2026/27 Group A4 MD3 - Source: Getty
Wales vs Norway - UEFA Nations League 2026/27 Group A4 MD3 - Source: Getty
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland has had a superb start to the 2026-27 season for Manchester City, striking seven times in as many games across three different competitions.
Five of those goals have come in five outings in the Premier League, where City top the standings, having won their opening five fixtures, with Haaland scoring in the last four.
The 26-year-old has also netted twice in the UEFA Champions League, where Manchester City opened their campaign for a first title since 2023 with a 2-0 victory at FC Porto last month.