Real Madrid have already discussed Cavan Sullivan’s future.

According to reports in Spain, Cavan Sullivan might withdraw from his agreement and select a different club, such as Real Madrid. Comments attributed to his agent circulated on social media, supposedly stating the deal with City was only an agreement in principle and not legally binding; however, those quotes were fabricated.

Mundo Deportivo reports that Real Madrid has a potential interest in signing Cavan Sullivan and that the club is monitoring the situation in case the agreement with City Football Group is not completed. Various media also link Real Madrid with the player for a possible transfer in the immediate future.

Philadelphia Union's Cavan Sullivan, a 16-year-old American-German midfielder, has a pre-existing agreement to join Manchester City when he turns 18. Real Madrid and Barcelona have also become interested in him. The Spanish clubs are interested in attempting to alter Sullivan's plan to move to the English champions. Sullivan's current contract with Philadelphia Union, which is valid until 2028, includes a clause that provides for his transfer to City. In the 2025/2026 Major League Soccer season, Sullivan has 6 goals and 5 assists in 23 appearances. His current market value is €4.50m, according to Transfermarkt. Reports from December 2025 indicated that the future transfer to Manchester City was for a deal worth approximately €4.3 million.