Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City cannot afford to spend big on a replacement for Sergio Aguero this summer.
Aguero this week announced he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on a glittering career at the Etihad that has delivered four league titles and a record 257 goals in all competitions.
The 32-year-old has endured a frustrating season with injury and illness restricting his impact, with Guardiola’s side having played for much of the campaign without a recognised centre-forward.
Speculation has increased this week over potential new arrivals to replace the Argentine, the lead name remaining Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland with each of Europe’s major clubs interested in his services.
Tottenham’s Harry Kane is another name that has been mooted, alongside potential moves for Southampton’s Danny Ings and Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez.
Guardiola has now raised doubts over a big-money incoming at the Etihad this summer, however, admitting that City are not in a position to afford huge investment on new additions.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash with Leicester, the Spaniard said there is a strong chance that the club do not bring in an Aguero replacement.
“I don’t know what is going to happen but at these prices we are not going to buy any striker,” Guardiola told his pre-match press conference.
“It’s impossible. We cannot afford it. All the clubs are struggling financially, us as well.
“Today there is more chance we will not buy a striker next season.”
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