Manchester City and Real Madrid are reported to be closely monitoring Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool’s influential midfielder, amid growing concern at Anfield over the Hungarian’s contract situation.Spanish outlet AS claims both European heavyweights are keeping tabs on the 25-year-old as Liverpool weigh up a long-term renewal. The move would form part of Manchester City’s wider search for midfield reinforcements as they plan for the next phase under Pep Guardiola.
Why Szoboszlai Fits the Profile
Since his switch from RB Leipzig to Liverpool in 2023, Szoboszlai has become one of Arne Slot’s most dynamic options — combining creativity, energy and technical quality. He can operate as a deep playmaker, a driving box-to-box presence, or even as a wide forward, making him attractive to clubs that prize tactical versatility.
Contract Concerns at Anfield
Reports suggest Szoboszlai currently earns around €130,000 per week, a figure described as modest compared with midfield peers such as Jude Bellingham (€400k/wk) and Jamall Musiala (€360k/wk). Liverpool are said to be keen to extend his deal until 2030 and reward him with a pay rise — but the club are growing cautious and want to protect his long-term value.
What Would Trigger a Move?
Any concrete approach from Manchester City would likely depend on two factors: whether Liverpool’s renewal talks stall, and whether Szoboszlai begins to consider alternatives. Given City’s existing midfield depth and their preference for careful, long-term planning, any bid would probably be conditional on squad changes or exits in 2026.
Wider European Interest
With Real Madrid also reportedly interested, Szoboszlai’s situation could develop into a major transfer storyline ahead of the 2026 window. For Liverpool, securing his signature to a new long-term contract is a priority; for City, monitoring from a distance allows them to react should the situation evolve in their favour.
FAQs
Q: Who is linked with Szoboszlai?
A: Manchester City and Real Madrid are reported to be closely monitoring the situation, per Spanish media.
Q: Why might Liverpool be worried?
A: Szoboszlai’s current wage (reported ~€130k/week) is considered low relative to top midfielders, and Liverpool want to renew his contract to protect his value.
Q: What position does Szoboszlai play?
A: He is a versatile central midfielder — capable of playing as a deep playmaker, box-to-box engine or wide attacking midfielder.
Q: Would City make an immediate bid?
A: Unlikely. Reports suggest City are monitoring the situation and would only act if renewal talks fail or if their own midfield plans change.
Q: When could this become a transfer story?
A: The situation is most likely to intensify ahead of the 2026 transfer window.
Conclusion
Dominik Szoboszlai is one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders thanks to his technical range and tactical flexibility. Manchester City and Real Madrid’s interest — even if currently cautious — underlines his value. If Liverpool cannot agree fresh terms, the next 12 months could spark a significant transfer battle that reshapes midfield options across Europe.
