Barcelona are hopeful of Manchester City missing out on Philadelphia Union’s Cavan Sullivan, to snatch him from the Premier League side’s clutches.
Sullivan turned 17 years of in September and can’t move to the UK until he turns 18. In other words, the Citizens can’t bring him to England until January 2028.
The MLS side have a pre-agreement with Manchester City to transfer him once he turns 18 years of age. Barcelona remain in the background, hoping for the pre-agreed deal with the Etihad club to collapse.
Last month, an independent commission found Manchester City guilty of all charges for breaching the Premier League’s financial rules between 2009 and 2018. On October 2nd, Enzo Maresca’s side lodged an appeal.
Agent’s Manchester City admission favours Barca
Last month, Cavan Sullivan’s agent Dan Segal warned he won’t end up at the Etihad despite the pre-agreement.
He said: “It’s true that there’s a pre-agreement with them for Sullivan, but you never know what might happen. We hope they resolve everything in the best possible way.”
After relaying his comments and the independent commission charging Manchester City, Sport shares Barcelona’s interest in the midfielder.
Everything was on track for him to join the English club until the guilty verdict. This led to his agent making those remarks in September, giving encouragement to other suitors. The list includes the La Liga winners, who have him on their agenda.
Barca monitoring Sullivan and Manchester City
Hansi Flick’s side are keeping a close watch on young talents with immense potential, and the American is one of them. Barca sporting director Deco wants to grab an opportunity if one presents itself.
Cavan Sullivan can become available if Manchester City were to face sanctions. Barcelona will be on ‘high alert’, hoping for Philadelphia Union to open the door to sign the rising star.
For now, the young midfielder is on Barcelona’s agenda. He has managed 10 goals and 11 assists for the American club so far. If Manchester City were to face sanctions, it could directly impact the teenager’s future.
Should that happen, Barcelona will be ready to pounce on the opportunity to snatch him. They won’t be alone, as other top European clubs could battle for his signature.
Irrespective of the outcome of Manchester City’s appeal, Sullivan can’t move to Europe until he turns 18 years of age. Until then, he will continue his development with the MLS side.
