Haaland senior alarms Manchester City: “We’re waiting for the verdict, then we’ll see what the future holds.” Where could he go? Real Madrid are waiting in the wings

Erling Haaland has become even more important to Manchester City since Pep Guardiola's departure and Enzo Maresca's arrival. The Citizens began the year well, but their results have dipped in recent weeks. The club also faces the threat of possible Premier League sanctions after the league found them guilty of more than 100 financial breaches.

With Manchester City's future shrouded in mystery, the futures of their star players are uncertain too, Haaland among them. The Norwegian has scored nine goals in the first nine rounds of Premier League fixtures and is under contract until 2034, but his father Alfe-Inge has not ruled out a departure.

"I think we should wait for the outcome of the appeal process. It could conclude quickly, even though there are fans, rival clubs and, above all, journalists who are targeting City at the moment. So we just have to wait and see what the outcome of the appeal will be."

"City believe they have solid evidence to prove their innocence, and I think it's best to wait for that decision to be made. Erling is only thinking about playing as much football as possible and is focused on that. I think it's mainly us, off the pitch, who think about it a bit more."

If City face punishment, with relegation also a risk, Haaland would have suitors everywhere. He would choose his next team, but very few clubs could afford to sign him and pay his astronomical salary. That would put Real Madrid in pole position. They've been courting him for some time and have a gap at number 9 in their squad. Alongside Mbappé, Haaland could form one of the strongest strike partnerships of all time.