Manchester City transfer news: Manchester City hold an interest in Club Brugge striker Nicolò Tresoldi, according to journalist Ekrem Konur, who reports a €60 million (about £52 million) price tag. That almost matches the £51 million City reportedly paid Borussia Dortmund for Erling Haaland in 2022.

Brugge hold the stronger hand. The 22-year-old German signed from Hannover in 2025 on a contract until 2029, and Belgian reports say the club rejected summer approaches. Fichajes claims they will not sell in January either, while Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked.

Why City need another striker

Since Omar Marmoush joined Tottenham in August, Enzo Maresca has had no natural centre-forward behind Haaland. When Haaland was doubtful for the AEK Athens tie and Antoine Semenyo was ruled out for around two months, Maresca had to consider Phil Foden as a false nine.

City have lost three league games in a row, most recently 3-1 at Nottingham Forest, and sit six points behind Arsenal. Haaland is signed until 2034, yet TeamTalk views a summer 2027 exit as the most likely scenario.

What Tresoldi offers

Tresoldi is a traditional number nine who works inside the box. He scored 19 league goals last season and has 13 in 14 games this term, including a hat-trick in Brugge’s 4-3 Champions League win over Inter and all four penalties he has taken. 

The weaknesses are clear. FotMob’s data placed him in the bottom half of Belgian Pro League strikers last season for touches and aerial duels won, and near the bottom for defensive actions.

Should Manchester City pay £52m for Tresoldi?

Yes, but not in January and not as Haaland’s understudy. Brugge have no reason to sell mid-season, and £52 million is too much for a striker who would start only when Haaland is injured. A 22-year-old scoring at this rate will demand regular football, which makes him a succession signing, not cover.

If Haaland leaves in 2027, City need a centre-forward ready to lead the line, and Tresoldi would cost a fraction of an established replacement. The risk is the evidence. One Pro League season and 14 games of elite form is thin for that outlay.

City should find short-term cover in January, then open talks in the summer once Haaland’s plans are clear. With Tresoldi tied to Brugge until 2029, waiting costs City little unless Arsenal or Chelsea move first.