Manchester City forward closing in on Fulham transfer as £35M talks progress

Oscar Bobb is edging closer to a permanent move away from Manchester City, with Fulham advancing negotiations for the 22-year-old winger as the January transfer window enters its final phase.

The Norway international has struggled to establish himself in Pep Guardiola’s first-team this season due to recurring fitness problems, and City are now prepared to sanction a permanent departure from his boyhood club.

Bobb’s rise and stalled progress at Manchester City

Bobb emerged as one of Manchester City’s most exciting academy graduates after his dramatic injury-time winner against Newcastle in January 2024, a goal that proved pivotal in City’s historic fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Despite that breakthrough moment, the winger has been unable to build sustained momentum at the Etihad Stadium. Injury setbacks and fierce competition in City’s attacking ranks have limited his opportunities, leaving Bobb at a crossroads in his young career.

With the FIFA World Cup approaching this summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico, regular minutes have become a priority for Bobb as he looks to secure a meaningful role with the Norwegian national team.

Fulham take the lead in £35 million negotiations

While Borussia Dortmund explored a January move, the Bundesliga side were deterred by Manchester City’s valuation. City were open to a loan with an obligation to buy, but their preference has always been a straight permanent sale.

Fulham have now emerged as the frontrunners. According to Sky Sports News, personal terms are already in place, with Bobb ready to approve the move once an agreement is finalised between the two clubs.

talkSPORT have reported that Fulham are preparing a formal bid worth around £35 million, a figure Manchester City are willing to accept following the January arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.

Deal structure and next steps

An agreement is expected in the coming days, after which Bobb would undergo a medical at Craven Cottage before completing his move to west London.

Manchester City are also expected to include a sell-on clause in the deal, consistent with the club’s long-standing approach when academy graduates leave on permanent transfers.

City context and recent form

The potential departure comes after City returned to winning ways at the weekend, beating Wolves 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium thanks to goals from Omar Marmoush and Antoine Semenyo.

Pep Guardiola’s side now turn their attention to a crucial UEFA Champions League group-stage clash against Galatasaray on Wednesday night, with Bobb increasingly close to beginning a new chapter away from Manchester.

Conclusion

Oscar Bobb’s imminent move to Fulham represents a pivotal moment for both player and club. For City, it is a pragmatic decision in a squad overflowing with attacking talent. For Bobb, it offers a clear pathway to regular Premier League football at a crucial stage of his development. If the deal is completed, west London could provide the platform he needs to reignite his career and keep his World Cup ambitions alive.

FAQ

• How much is Oscar Bobb valued at?
  Manchester City value Bobb at around £35 million.
• Which clubs are interested in Oscar Bobb?
  Fulham are leading the race, with Borussia Dortmund previously showing interest.
• Why is Manchester City willing to sell Bobb?
  Recurring injuries and limited first-team opportunities have prompted City to approve a permanent sale.
• Has Bobb agreed personal terms with Fulham?
  Yes, personal terms are believed to be in place pending club-to-club agreement.
• Will Manchester City include a sell-on clause?
  City are expected to insert a sell-on clause, as is customary with academy departures.