United eye City stars as Premier League fate hangs in balance

114 breaches of Financial Fair Play between 2009 and 2018 have been recorded against Man City, fuelling speculation that Man Utd could swoop for two of the capital’s top talents as the club’s Premier League future looks increasingly uncertain. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick warned the situation could reshape the transfer market.

FFP breach and looming sanction

Man City were found guilty of breaching FFP 114 times, and the exact punishment is still being deliberated. Reporter Ben Jacobs said the Premier League wants a debilitating sanction, while the English Football League is expected to side with the Premier League.

The possible outcomes range from expulsion from the top flight to a massive points deduction that could see City drop into the fifth‑tier National League. Such a scenario would dramatically alter the club’s standing in English football.

pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor suggested that two of City’s best, goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and midfielder Elliot Anderson, could move across the city to Old Trafford. He argued that United would benefit from acquiring both players if City’s league status collapses.

Potential player exodus

Agbonlahor said of Donnarumma: “I will say Donnarumma to Manchester United. Manchester United will go and nick their number one goalkeeper.” The former Aston Villa forward criticised the Belgian keeper’s recent form, citing an own‑goal against Fulham.

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Regarding Anderson, Agbonlahor claimed: “Manchester United wanted you, now you go there… maybe half the price.” He portrayed the midfielder as a prime target for United’s midfield rebuild.

United had looked into signing Donnarumma in the summer of 2025, and Anderson was their No 1 midfield target heading into that summer. However, Senne Lammens has already established himself as one of the league’s best keepers and was named the signing of the season for the 2025/26 campaign.

The Red Devils face two hurdles in signing Anderson: the gigantic costs involved and the player’s apparent preference for staying at City. If City cannot extract maximum value from him, United’s interest could be reignited.

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Regardless of the final verdict, a shortage of big‑name players is unlikely if City lose their Premier League status, as the market would be flooded with talent seeking new clubs. The looming sanction therefore promises a reshuffle of English football’s elite roster.