Man City Complete £27m Sale of Young Star to Fulham as Pep Guardiola Trims Squad Back Down for Premier League Title Challenge

Oscar Bobb Joins Fulham in £27m Deal as Man City Reshape for Title Run-In

Manchester City have never been a club to stand still, and their latest move in the transfer market underlines that ruthless clarity once again. The Premier League champions have completed the £27 million sale of highly-rated winger Oscar Bobb to Fulham, a deal that marks both an emotional goodbye and a calculated step forward as Pep Guardiola trims his squad for another Premier League title challenge.

At just 22 years old, Bobb departs the Etihad Stadium as a league winner, a Champions League participant, and one of the most technically gifted academy products City have produced in recent years. For Fulham, it represents a statement signing — one aimed not just at survival or mid-table comfort, but at genuine progression.

Craven Cottage Arrival Sealed Until 2031

Fulham confirmed the deal on Friday morning, announcing that Oscar Bobb has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract running until the summer of 2031. The Norway international will wear the number 14 shirt at Craven Cottage and becomes one of the most expensive signings in the club’s recent history.

The reported £27m fee reflects both Bobb’s immense potential and the premium attached to Premier League-proven talent, even when that experience has come largely from the bench. Fulham moved decisively, fending off interest from other English and European clubs to secure a player they believe can grow into a central attacking figure.

Club sources described the deal as “one for the future but ready for now”, a reflection of Bobb’s technical quality, versatility across the frontline, and calmness in possession — traits that have been honed under Guardiola’s demanding eye.

From Etihad Promise to Fulham Opportunity

Oscar Bobb’s journey at Manchester City has been one of patience and precision. Signed from Vålerenga as a teenager, he rose steadily through the academy ranks, impressing coaches with his close control, balance, and football intelligence. His breakthrough moments came in flashes — substitute appearances in tight games, cup starts, and the occasional reminder of his elite-level potential.

In total, Bobb made 47 senior appearances for City, featuring across domestic competitions and in Europe. However, this season he found opportunities harder to come by, registering 15 appearances in all competitions, only nine of which came in the Premier League.

With Phil Foden enjoying a career-best run, Jeremy Doku offering explosive pace, and Savinho adding another layer of competition, Bobb’s path to regular minutes became increasingly blocked. At 22, the time felt right for a move.

The Berge Connection and the Manager’s Pitch

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Speaking to FFCtv following his unveiling, Bobb admitted that conversations behind the scenes made the decision easier than expected. One voice, in particular, carried real weight — that of Sander Berge, his Norway international teammate.

“It feels great to be here. I had a great day meeting everyone and I’m very excited,” Bobb said.
“I’ve always known Fulham to be a good club, with good players and a great stadium. I spoke to Sander, my good friend, and I spoke to the manager.”

Berge’s endorsement of the club culture, London life, and the atmosphere at Craven Cottage helped sell the move, but it was the manager’s vision that sealed it.

“He explained what the system’s like, how the lads are, and how the club is,” Bobb added.
“He seemed lovely, so it was an easy decision basically.”

That tactical clarity — where Bobb fits, what is expected of him, and how he can express himself — stood in contrast to the uncertainty of being a rotational option at City.

An Emotional Exit From Manchester City

While the move offers opportunity and responsibility, leaving Manchester City was never going to be straightforward. Bobb’s farewell message, published on the club’s official website, carried genuine warmth and gratitude.

“I leave City with nothing but amazing memories and I want to thank everyone for their help and guidance during my time here,” he said.
“I have been so lucky to be part of such a special football club and to have experienced so many fantastic moments.”

His words reflected a player who understands what City gave him — elite-level education, exposure to the highest standards, and the chance to learn from one of the greatest managers of the modern era.

“I have also learnt so much — not just as a player but as a person too — and for that I’m so very grateful,” Bobb continued.
“Thank you to everyone — to Pep, the coaches, all my incredible teammates and the fantastic City fans.”

There was no bitterness, no sense of unfinished business — just the recognition that sometimes growth requires a new setting.

Pep Guardiola Trims Squad for Premier League Title Challenge

Newcastle United v Manchester City – Premier League

From Manchester City’s perspective, the decision fits a familiar pattern. Guardiola has never been afraid to let talented players go if their pathway becomes congested. The Catalan prefers a streamlined, highly trusted squad, especially during the business end of a title race.

The £27m fee strengthens City’s financial position while maintaining harmony within the dressing room. Rather than allowing Bobb to stagnate on the fringes, City have chosen to cash in — much as they did with Cole Palmer, Liam Delap and others in recent seasons.

Importantly, this is not viewed internally as a failure of development. Quite the opposite. City pride themselves on preparing players for top-level careers, even if that success comes elsewhere.

A Calculated Loss, Not a Regret

Those close to the club insist Bobb remains highly rated by Guardiola and his staff. His intelligence, work ethic and technical control were never in doubt. But timing matters, and City’s depth in wide areas left little room for error or experimentation.

With the Premier League title race entering its decisive phase, Guardiola has chosen focus over flexibility. Fewer bodies. Clear roles. Maximum intensity.

Selling Bobb allows City to sharpen that focus — and avoid difficult conversations about minutes when every game carries weight.

Fulham’s Ambition Clear With Oscar Bobb Signing

For Fulham, this is a signing loaded with intent. Bobb is not arriving as a backup or a long-term project hidden from view. He is expected to play, to influence games, and to grow into a key figure in Marco Silva’s system.

His ability to operate on either flank, drift between the lines, and retain possession under pressure makes him an ideal fit for a Fulham side that values control as much as transition.

There will be patience, of course. Adjusting from rotation at City to responsibility at Fulham is a mental shift as much as a tactical one. But those around the club believe Bobb is ready.

A Fresh Stage, A Leading Role

Free from the shadow of superstars at the Etihad, Oscar Bobb now has the platform to show exactly what he can do. At Craven Cottage, he will not be the young prospect waiting his turn — he will be part of the plan.

For Manchester City, the deal is another example of strategic squad management under Pep Guardiola as they chase yet another Premier League crown. For Fulham, it could prove one of the smartest pieces of business of the season.

Sometimes, a transfer works because it makes sense for everyone involved. This feels like one of those moments.