Man City may have to break ten-year transfer policy to find perfect squad if Gabriel Jesus joins Arsenal

By the time the transfer window closes on September 1, Manchester City will hope to have one of the strongest squads they have ever fielded for a Premier League title challenge.

Erling Haaland looks guaranteed to score goals, while Julian Alvarez could be a shrewd back-up if he can adapt to European football in relatively quick time. There is talk of a defensive midfielder and a left-back arriving, and City have promised more incomings to strengthen other areas of the squad.

If four players arrive, though, that means some must leave to either recoup funds or keep the squad size at a competitive number. Too many players, especially in attacking positions, and there will start to be a handful of world-class forwards restricted to occasional substitute appearances. Even if City don't want to lose the likes of Gabriel Jesus or Raheem Sterling, it might have to be a necessity.

Man City would be foolish if they don't pursue Frenkie de Jong transfer

Others linked with exits are Aleks Zinchenko and Nathan Ake - two defenders already with limited game time which would be reduced further if a new left-back arrived. Both are likeable members of the squad, although City wouldn't begrudge them the chance of playing regularly.

So if that decision is made, buyers will have to be found. City have a strong record of obtaining good transfer fees when selling players and this summer would be no different, especially if they don't need to sell. It will be up to a buying club to persuade them it's worth allowing an important squad member to leave.

It seems so far, then, that if City want an acceptable fee for one of those players, they may have to sell to a direct rival in the Premier League - something they've not done with a key player