Barcelona may have a huge chance to sign Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer, with Manchester City likely to concede their chances of renewal.
According to Football Insider, Barcelona are in pole position to sign Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer in the summer. The German midfielder is coming to the end of his contract at Manchester City and could move away, despite Pep Guardiola’s eagerness to keep him on board.
Ilkay Gundogan has proven his worth as a leader and one of Manchester City’s best players on the pitch time and again. The 32-year-old Premier League winner helped them win the title on the final day of last season and is making all the efforts necessary to help them achieve the treble.
Gundogan has scored four goals in his last three games across all competitions and added an assist for Kevin De Bruyne’s goal against Real Madrid. He still has a vital part to play, and Guardiola knows his qualities are unmatched in his Manchester City side.
Hence, Guardiola is eager to keep the 32-year-old Premier League winner at the club beyond the summer. Manchester City have reportedly tried to renew his deal. But they may not find an agreement with Gundogan to renew his deal at the Etihad.
Barcelona are eager to sign the German on a free transfer. Tactically, Gundogan fits Xavi Hernandez’s tactical ideas. But more importantly, the financial efforts the Catalan needs to bring him appeals to the club.
Barcelona are in a tough financial situation and need to find bargain deals to keep their squad quality intact. There are hardly any players better than Gundogan in the Bosman pool, as the Catalans are ready to offer a pay rise to the German.
Playing for Barcelona appeals to Gundogan, with the 32-year-old Premier League winner considering a move. The pull of the Catalans may prove effective in the German’s case, who also has lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.
However, Gundogan wants to stay in Europe and compete in the Champions League. That would make him a favourite to join Barcelona then, with his time at Manchester City likely to end in the summer. Meanwhile, the Catalans are open to making room with the possible sale of Franck Kessie, who has interest from Tottenham and other Premier League sides.
Gundogan will prove a solid addition for Barcelona, albeit for the short term. However, Guardiola will see it as a massive loss for Manchester City, who may have to spend big to find a replacement for the 32-year-old Premier League winner.
