Two Man City players can spark Bayern transfer activity amid talks

Haaland or Kane

Manchester City tried to buy Harry Kane when Erling Haaland was unavailable in 2021, then went back a year later for Haaland after failing to sign Kane. Bayern Munich tried to buy Erling Haaland in 2022 and, after failing to do so, are now trying to buy Kane.

The absence of a top striker is keenly felt in Munich, particularly after having Robert Lewandowski do it so brilliantly for so long, and Haaland made a big difference when the teams met in the Champions League quarter-final. With two goals against Yokohama in 45 minutes, the Norwegian can impress again how important it is for the top teams to have quality forwards leading the line.

Full-back watch

Pep Guardiola did not wish to comment on links to Bayern full-back Benjamin Pavard, while stating that he would, of course, be considering Kyle Walker for selection despite the Bavarian interest in him. A start for Walker would be seen in some quarters as a setback for Bayern, and every action that he makes will be scrutinised.

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And if it is worth Blues keeping an eye on Pavard, there is also fresh interest in Joao Cancelo. He still is not expected to make a permanent return to Guardiola's squad, yet gave a handy reminder of what he can do with a nice assist for Haaland on Sunday even if there was also the loose play that saw others preferred last season.

City young trio go again

Cole Palmer, James McAtee and Oscar Bobb are all at different stages of their career but all count as the youth in this squad. Palmer was set to go on loan for the season and still may, although the sale of Riyad Mahrez does give one fewer option on the right wing.

All three had their moments in the first friendly with 45 minutes each and will be looking for another opportunity to show what they can do in front of Guardiola, knowing that there are places in the first-team squad up for grabs for the season.

Minutes for De Bruyne

City will not rush Kevin De Bruyne back after the hamstring tear he suffered in the Champions League final, but Guardiola declared him close to a return after the Yokohama game and on Tuesday he was back training with the team. That would normally be too soon for a match but friendlies are more forgiving than a must-win match in the middle of a title chase.

De Bruyne is still unlikely to be seen for long if at all, but unlimited substitutions means that Guardiola could bring the midfielder on for a few minutes to start building him back up to match fitness.