Fulham step up Oscar Bobb talks as £35m Manchester City deal emerges

Fulham are pushing forward in negotiations with Manchester City over a potential permanent transfer for Oscar Bobb, with talks accelerating around a deal valued at approximately £35 million.

The discussions represent a major development in a transfer storyline that has steadily gathered pace throughout January. City have made it clear they are open to offers for the highly-rated attacker, whose long-term future has been the subject of growing interest across both the Premier League and Europe.

Oscar Bobb’s recent trajectory has been influenced by a combination of misfortune and squad dynamics at Manchester City.

A leg bone fracture suffered during the opening week of the 2024/25 campaign disrupted his momentum after an impressive pre-season, while a more recent hamstring issue forced him off during the Carabao Cup tie against Brentford. Despite City’s continued belief in his ability, Bobb has found opportunities increasingly limited.

That pathway narrowed further this month following City’s acquisition of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, adding another layer of competition in attacking areas.

Several clubs have monitored Bobb’s availability. Crystal Palace were among the early Premier League sides to show interest, while Borussia Dortmund explored the possibility of a loan move with an obligation to buy.

However, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, it is Fulham who have now taken a decisive step. The London club have entered active talks with City after placing a proposal worth around £35m on the table for a permanent transfer this month.

Dortmund remain keen on the Norway international and are expected to decide soon whether to submit a competing bid, but Fulham currently appear to be leading the race.

From City’s perspective, a permanent sale fits neatly into their wider approach of managing squad evolution while maximising asset value. Bobb remains highly regarded internally, but the congestion in attacking positions has made a departure increasingly plausible.

For Fulham, landing Bobb would represent a statement signing at Craven Cottage. The 21-year-old’s versatility, creativity and technical quality would offer a significant attacking boost, while also underlining Fulham’s ambition in the market.

Regular Premier League football could provide Bobb with the platform he needs to rediscover rhythm and fully express the talent that once marked him out as one of City’s most exciting prospects.

Negotiations between Fulham and Manchester City are expected to continue in the coming days. If terms are agreed, Bobb could complete a January move that reshapes both clubs’ attacking plans.

Would Oscar Bobb thrive with regular football at Fulham, or should he hold out for a move elsewhere in Europe?