Doubts have been cast over Manchester City's move for American prospect Cavan Sullivan. The agent of the 17-year-old has revealed that the prospects of the pre-transfer agreement are 'out of his hands' after the Premier League side were found guilty of 114 financial breaches.
Sullivan, who turned 17 yesterday, is due to complete a move to the top flight of English football next September when he turns 18. City have had a deal in place since 2024 when they acquired the highly-regarded Philadelphia Union midfielder aged just 14.
But in the wake of last week's news that City have been found guilty of the financial breaches in their legal battle with the Premier League, uncertainty has been cast over the proposed transfer.
Agent admits uncertainty over transfer
According to Sport, numerous clubs are keeping a close eye on the American starlet's situation as he prepares to make the move to the Etihad in 2027. However, his representative, Dan Segal, has acknowledged that potential punishments handed to the club could place the preliminary agreement under serious threat.
As quoted by the outlet, Segal said: "Manchester City is one of the biggest clubs in the world. What they have built will forever be etched in history.
"It's true that there is a preliminary agreement with them regarding Sullivan, but you never know what can happen. We hope they manage to resolve everything in the best possible way."
The report further reveals that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are all circling, poised to capitalise should the agreement collapse.
Sullivan's international recognition
The youngster has already earned full international recognition, having received his debut cap from Mauricio Pochettino during the USA's victory against Peru.
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager said: "If we only talk about his performance, he's doing really well in his club in Philadelphia. Talking only about that, I think he's ready, but the rest of the players too. He's mature enough on the field."
City's legal battle with the Premier League
City have been thrust into the limelight following the outcome of their legal dispute with the Premier League, which came to light last week. The club were found guilty of nearly all of the 115 alleged breaches, after an investigation into their conduct between 2009 and 2018.
Despite the club maintaining its innocence throughout, they are widely anticipated to lodge an appeal against the ruling, though it has already sparked widespread calls for substantial points deductions and even expulsion from the top flight and the English Football League (EFL).
A club statement read: "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. As such Manchester City FC's position remains consistent with the club's statement of February 2023. The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence."
