Man City 'identify Erling Haaland replacement' as club 'prepares' midfielder bid

Manchester City have reportedly identified a replacement for Erling Haaland amid speculation over his future.

Haaland has enjoyed two sensational seasons at City since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, scoring 90 goals in 98 appearances. Over the past two seasons, he has already won two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup and numerous individual awards, including two Golden Boots.

Despite Haaland's success at City, rumors have swirled as to whether he will leave the Etihad Stadium this summer to explore another league. However, his agent Rafaela Pimenta has dismissed the claims, insisting her client is committed to City's project.

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Should Haaland leave, HITC claim City are “big admirers” of Girona striker Artem Dovbyk and view him as a potential successor to Haaland. Dovbyk is highly rated in La Liga, with former Ukraine manager Oleg Fedorchuk convinced he can play anywhere.

“(Dovbyk) can play in any major league,” Fedorchuk said. “It all depends on the style of the team. He was the best striker (in Ukraine). (He has) a lot of speed, exceptional physical strength and a good left foot.”

Elsewhere, midfielder Mateo Kovacic is reportedly attracting interest from Galatasaray this summer. The Turkish giants are keen to add to their squad after winning the Champions League next season.

Galatasaray reportedly had Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg on its list of potential signings and Kovacic has emerged as a surprise new target. This is according to Turkish media outlet Fotomac, who claim Gala will step up efforts to sign Kovacic after setting their sights on the Croatian in February.

The report adds that a bid is “being prepared” and that the club hopes to sit down with the Premier League champions “in the coming days”. It is also said that if the Turkish champions fail to reach a deal over the line, they will look to secure a loan deal for the City midfielder.

The 30-year-old is still an important player for Pep Guardiola and it remains to be seen whether he will be allowed to leave.

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