We’ve now learned that this will be Sergio Aguero’s final season in a Manchester City shirt, a day fans will have dreaded for quite some time.
The Argentine’s appearances have been limited this year and the club have opted not to extend the forward’s contract, putting a number of clubs across the world on high alert.
Regardless of your allegiance, it’s impossible to deny the impact Aguero has had on English football. From his unbelievable flair to being the fourth top scorer in Premier League history, this man’s resume speaks for itself.
Now though, City must do the unthinkable and begin to search for a successor to teh Argentine, a task we definitely don’t envy.
We’ve taken a look through a number of options that the club might turn to, some more likely than others, in the aftermath of his departure.
Erling Haaland
Borussia Dortmund’s star man has captured the imagination of football fans across the globe in recent months. The 20-year-old has gone from strength-to-strength, impressing just about every time he steps foot on the pitch.
If anyone has the funds, City do, and Haaland clearly has a rock solid belief in himself that could be vital in him succeeding in the premier League.
Lionel Messi
From one Argentine to another, this transfer felt inevitable a matter of weeks ago. Messi has been heavily linked with a move away from the Nou Camp and while rumours may have cooled a little, a reunion with Guardiola still doesn’t seem too farfetched.
If it’s going to happen, summer 2021 will surely be when City have to make their move.
Lautaro Martinez
The wildcard in this equation is the undeniably remarkable Lautaro Martinez. Yes, other clubs may have more of an investment in his progress, but the Inter forward is operating at a level above right now.
The race for his signature is on – and City could be left kicking themselves if they miss the boat on the 23-year-old.
Raul Jimenez
While question marks remain given Jimenez’ horrific head injury, it thankfully sounds like the Wolves man will return sooner rather than later.
If the Mexican can come back and rediscover his goalscoring touch, there are few better options already established in England. He’s adapted brilliantly to the Premier League, is three years younger than Aguero and excels in the work rate department.
Harry Kane
The great unanswered question: what could Harry Kane achieve away from Tottenham Hotspur?
The Englishman is well on-course to challenging for Alan Shearer’s PL scoring crown. He’s strong, powerful and has the sort of finishing prowess most strikers can only dream of.
Could this finally be the year Kane leaves his beloved Spurs in search of silverware?
Featured image credit: Getty