Barcelona are interested in a move for Ilkay Gundogan next summer on a free transfer, although an extension with Man City remains on the cards.
Fabrizio Romano on the iQue Golazo podcast insists Barcelona are on the hunt for Ilkay Gundogan when his contract expires at the end of the season. The Blaugrana are keen to bring the German international on a free transfer, although the midfielder could remain with Man City.
Ilkay Gundogan was briefly linked with a move away from Man City in the summer when many key players left the club. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko left for Arsenal, while Nathan Ake and Bernardo Silva came close to exiting the side.
Gundogan was linked with many clubs after he entered the final year of his current deal. Romano insists a new contract with Man City could also be possible, but so far, there have been no indications regarding the same. Pep Guardiola did not want to lose the German in the summer and kept him on board.
However, if the midfielder decides to leave, many top clubs are keen on the 31-year-old. Some top English sides could look to bring the experienced star on board. At the same time, Barcelona are considered the firm favourite in that scenario, considering they were vying for his signature in the summer.
Barcelona tried to sell Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United and Chelsea in the summer, as they might revive such a deal next summer. The club needs funds to repair their books, and a sale of the Dutchman would be appealing.
Gundogan, as a replacement for De Jong, would make perfect sense from many angles. Moreover, the German arriving on a free transfer would be the best solution for the Spanish side. Gundogan would be the perfect foil for Xavi’s system, who could help this young Barcelona team with his experience.
While Barcelona will be eager to wrap up a deal for the Manchester City midfielder, the 31-year-old may be given a chance to prolong his career at the Etihad. Guardiola would love to keep him beyond the current season, although for that to happen, the club will have to hand him a new deal.
So far, there have been whispers regarding a new contract, although nothing has materialised. Gundogan wants to win the Champions League with Man City, something they might look to achieve this term. However, he would also be open to moving to Barcelona if the opportunity arises.
