Haaland not pushing for Arsenal move despite Man City's financial breach verdict

Erling Haaland has no interest in forcing a move to Arsenal, according to sources close to the striker, even as Manchester City’s guilty verdict on 114 Premier League financial breaches continues to fuel speculation about his future at the Etihad.

TEAMtalk reports there has been no contact between Arsenal and Haaland’s representatives, with the 26-year-old Norwegian fully committed to City for the remainder of the current season. City, who have always maintained they did nothing wrong, now face potential sanctions including fines and a points deduction following the conclusion of the long-running case, pending an appeal.

Arsenal have naturally surfaced in online discussions as a potential destination for Haaland, given Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to remain active in the market for a centre-forward heading into 2027. The Gunners demonstrated their financial firepower during the summer with a pursuit of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, suggesting Haaland’s reported wages would not present an obstacle — but for now, the move exists only in speculation.

Arteta’s side began the season in strong form, winning seven consecutive matches across four competitions after claiming the Premier League title last term — their first top-flight crown in 22 years. That momentum was checked by a 3-0 defeat at Brighton before the international break, a result that will have given the Spaniard considerable food for thought during the three-week hiatus. Arsenal return to action on 10 October, hosting Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.

Separately, a report has emerged claiming that Cesc Fabregas’ managerial contract at Serie A side Como contains a clause that would allow certain former clubs, Arsenal among them, to appoint him as their next head coach. Arteta is understood to be close to signing a new contract that would extend his tenure beyond a decade at the Emirates — he was first appointed in December 2019 — and there is no suggestion from either party that a change is imminent. Fabregas’ impressive early work in Italy has nonetheless prompted some discussion about his longer-term managerial trajectory.