As speculation grows around Erling Haaland’s future at Manchester City. The Sky Blues are reportedly preparing a major contingency plan to ensure their dominance remains intact should their prolific striker ever depart. The Cityzens, who have built a modern dynasty under Pep Guardiola, are said to have identified Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham as their primary target to replace the Norwegian forward.
Despite being under contract at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2034, Erling Haaland’s future at Manchester City continues to dominate transfer conversations. Reports of a possible move to Spain — particularly to Real Madrid — have refused to fade, raising questions about what lies ahead for one of football’s most lethal goal scorers.
Haaland’s impact since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 has been nothing short of transformative. His goals have powered City through a period of unprecedented domestic and European success, including a historic treble-winning campaign. Also, his scoring rate and physical dominance have made him indispensable to Guardiola’s system.
His consistency in front of goal has elevated City’s attack to extraordinary levels, and his presence continues to strike fear into defences across Europe.
Yet, despite his long-term deal and happiness in Manchester, rumours persist about a potential switch to La Liga. Some reports in Spain have even suggested that Real Madrid have held early discussions with Haaland’s representatives about a possible move in 2026 — a development that could set off one of the most dramatic transfer sagas in modern football.
For Manchester City, the thought of losing Haaland may still seem distant, but the club’s hierarchy are known for their meticulous long-term planning. According to Defensa Central, Pep Guardiola and the City board are already mapping out the future — and that future, it seems, could involve Jude Bellingham.
Bellingham Becomes City’s Dream Successor
The report claims Guardiola and his team are “obsessed” with Bellingham, viewing him as the ideal leader for the next phase of Manchester City’s project. Should Haaland eventually depart, City are expected to reinvest heavily — with a potential €200 million from his sale being redirected toward an ambitious move for the England international.
Manchester City’s admiration for Bellingham is not new. Before the midfielder joined Real Madrid in 2023, City were among several English clubs eager to secure his signature after his breakout performances at Borussia Dortmund.
Ultimately, Bellingham chose to pursue his dream at the Santiago Bernabéu, where he has flourished, becoming one of world football’s most complete and influential midfielders.
That decision reportedly left a lasting impression on City officials, who are said to remain determined to bring the player back to England at some point.
Within the Etihad hierarchy, Bellingham is viewed not just as a player but as a potential talisman — a figure capable of embodying Guardiola’s footballing philosophy while leading a new era of success. His maturity, tactical intelligence, and ability to control games from midfield have made him one of the most coveted players in the world.
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While the idea of Bellingham trading Madrid for Manchester remains speculative, there is little doubt that such a transfer would represent one of the most extraordinary deals in football history. Real Madrid view Bellingham as their cornerstone for the next decade — the future face of their team and a successor to the likes of Luka Modrić.
Therefore, Real Madrid are in no hurry to part ways with their prized asset. Having spent more than €100 million to sign him from Dortmund, the Spanish giants would likely demand a world-record fee if City ever made an approach.
Beyond the finances, Bellingham’s own commitment to Madrid and his growing influence under the new coach make any potential move a complex proposition.
