Manchester City could benefit from sell-on clauses this summer if two former players move on, potentially handing head coach Enzo Maresca extra transfer funds. The Blues have a reputation for clever transfer dealings, both in signing and selling players.
City's Selling Strategy
Pep Guardiola mastered a transfer strategy that didn't stand in a player's way if they wanted to leave, but City often added clauses to ensure they profit later. Two common clauses are the matching fee clause and the sell-on clause. The latter could hand Maresca a bonus this summer.
Sell-on clauses are activated if the selling club makes a profit. City then receive a chunk of that profit. This weekend, one such clause came into focus involving Oscar Bobb.
Oscar Bobb's Potential Move
Oscar Bobb left City for Fulham in January for £27m after wanting more playing time. He didn't score or assist in the second half of last season but impressed at the World Cup with his work rate. Now AS Roma are reportedly interested in signing the winger.
Fulham would likely require a bid that lands them a profit to let Bobb leave. Should that happen, City will take 20% of the profit. For example, if Fulham and Roma agree a £30m transfer, City would bank £600,000.
Julian Alvarez Saga
The main transfer City hope for is Julian Alvarez. He made it clear at the World Cup that he wants to leave Atletico Madrid, but the club are standing firm. Real Madrid and Barcelona are keen, with Barcelona reportedly willing to increase their bid to £111m. That would bank City £3m thanks to a 10% sell-on clause.
Atletico are holding out for even more. Alvarez reportedly has a £419m release clause; if activated, City would land roughly £33.8m. Such a move is unrealistic, but the power of the sell-on clause is inarguable.
City's selling strategy appears set to continue, providing passive income for Maresca and future managers.
