Fulham have reached an agreement with Manchester City to secure the signing of Norwegian winger Oscar Bobb for an initial fee of £27 million. The deal, confirmed on Wednesday 28 January 2026, marks a significant move in the Premier League's mid-season transfer window.
Key Clauses in the Transfer Agreement
As part of the structured agreement, Manchester City have negotiated two crucial clauses that could benefit them in the future. Firstly, City will receive a 20 percent sell-on fee should Fulham decide to transfer Bobb to another club at a later date. Secondly, the reigning champions have secured matching rights, granting them the opportunity to match any future bid for the player if they wish to bring him back to the Etihad Stadium.
Fulham's Strategic Acquisition
The 22-year-old Norwegian international is set to join Fulham as a direct replacement for Adama Traore, who recently completed a move to West Ham United. Bobb's arrival also provides essential cover for Harry Wilson, whose contract at Craven Cottage expires at the conclusion of the current season, creating uncertainty about his future with the London club.
Bobb's transfer comes at a time when Fulham are seeking to bolster their attacking options, particularly in wide positions where creativity and pace are paramount. The young winger brings Premier League experience despite limited starting opportunities this campaign.
Manchester City's Transfer Strategy
For Manchester City, this sale represents an opportunity to recoup funds following significant January expenditure. The club recently invested £82.5 million in defensive reinforcement Marc Guehi and winger Antoine Semenyo, whose arrival from Bournemouth further diminished Bobb's prospects for regular first-team football.
Manager Pep Guardiola now boasts considerable depth in attacking positions, with summer signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki joining established stars Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Omar Marmoush, Jeremy Doku, and Savinho in competing for roles in advanced midfield and wide areas.
Bobb's City Career and Future Prospects
During his time at Manchester City, Oscar Bobb made 47 appearances across all competitions, netting three goals. His most memorable contribution came in January 2024 when he scored an injury-time winner against Newcastle United. This season, however, he has started only five Premier League matches, with just two of those coming since August.
The Norwegian international had also attracted interest from German giants Borussia Dortmund, but has ultimately chosen to continue his development in England with Marco Silva's Fulham side.
Manchester City's recent transfer activity shows a pattern of strategic squad management. While they have spent approximately £430 million over the last three transfer windows, they have simultaneously generated revenue through sales of players including James McAtee, Maximo Perrone, Kyle Walker, Ederson, and now Oscar Bobb.
Potential Debut Timeline
Should Bobb successfully complete his medical examination and finalise the transfer paperwork in time, he could make his Fulham debut as early as Sunday against Manchester United. This would provide an immediate opportunity for the winger to demonstrate his capabilities against one of the league's traditional powerhouses.
The transfer represents a calculated gamble for both clubs. Fulham acquire a promising young talent with Premier League experience, while Manchester City secure financial return and protective clauses for a player who found opportunities limited in their star-studded squad.
