La Liga
Cavan Sullivan is back on the radar of FC Barcelona's transfers and Real Madrid despite an agreement in place for him to eventually play at Manchester City. Both Spanish clubs have made new inquiries about the American, who turns 17 years old on September 28 and has just debuted with his country's national team.
The envisioned scenario still places Sullivan in England once he comes of age. However, the interest from the two LaLiga giants keeps open an operation that should not be resolved immediately, as the player is still owned by the Philadelphia Union.
Cavan Sullivan vs Peru
— The translator (@sajadTranslator) September 26, 2026
First Team Debut at 16 YO 💎🇺🇸
( 60 minutes played ) pic.twitter.com/m91OasEVhJ
Cavan Sullivan remains committed to Manchester City
Manchester City has had the edge since 2024. Sullivan signed his first professional contract with the Philadelphia Union back then, valid until 2028, as part of a structured deal for him to join the English team once he turns 18 years old.
This situation has not deterred new approaches from Spain. As reported by Diario SPORT, both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have inquired again about the conditions and contractual status of the American midfielder. It's worth noting that Barcelona is considering sales in the upcoming January transfer window.
For now, these inquiries have not led to a change in the player's plans. Sullivan remains committed to the agreement reached with the City Football Group, so any attempt to alter his destination will have to overcome a starting position favorable to the Manchester club.
European interest comes at a time of peak sporting growth for Cavan Sullivan. His performances with Philadelphia earned him a call-up from Mauricio Pochettino to join the United States national team for the first time.
FC Barcelona continues to monitor his progress
Sullivan made his debut for the United States on September 26, 2026 against Peru. Pochettino immediately put him in the starting lineup, and the midfielder played 62 minutes in the 4-1 victory for the United States.
He was exactly 16 years and 363 days old, becoming the fourth youngest male player to debut for the United States in the modern era. His presence in the national team adds another layer to a progression that had already attracted the interest of several European clubs.
His season with Philadelphia explains much of this attention. Sullivan had recently accumulated six goals and 11 assists in 23 MLS matches, numbers that have increased his prominence before he turns 17.
FC Barcelona is navigating an operation with a clear difficulty: there is a pre-established path to Manchester. The Blaugrana's interest comes with direct competition from Real Madrid, who has also requested updated information on the player.

Cavan Sullivan is under contract until 2028
The timeline will be crucial. Sullivan's contract with Philadelphia runs until 2028, while his move to City is planned for when he can make the leap to Europe at 18 years old.
Until then, his performance in the MLS and with the United States will shape the case's development. His next international commitment is scheduled against Chile in the current national team window, before facing Mexico and Canada.
FC Barcelona and Real Madrid remain vigilant, but the starting point has not changed: Cavan Sullivan currently maintains his commitment to Manchester City. Any alteration to this scenario will require a specific move before the anticipated time for his transfer to Europe.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Giro radical en el futuro de Cavan Sullivan, el Barcelona lo tiene a tiro
