Manchester City are leading the race to re-sign Ilkay Gundogan, the former Germany international. The 33-year-old is focusing on returning to the Premier League champions, despite receiving offers from other clubs.
Barcelona is expected to facilitate Gundogan’s exit as he looks set to leave the Catalan club on a free transfer. Although discussions about the terms between Gundogan and City are still pending, both the player and manager Pep Guardiola have expressed interest in the move.
Gundogan’s contract with Barcelona runs until 2026, having triggered an extension last season after meeting appearance requirements. If negotiations progress smoothly, he will return to the Etihad Stadium, where he enjoyed a successful seven-year spell, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one Champions League.
Reports indicate that City have shown interest in Gundogan, who is evaluating his options after being informed by new Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick that he is not part of the club’s plans going forward.
Gundogan joined City from Borussia Dortmund in 2017 and made 188 appearances, becoming an integral part of the team’s success in English football under Guardiola. He moved to Barcelona last summer on a free transfer and contributed five goals and nine assists in 36 appearances during the 2023-24 season.
Due to ongoing financial difficulties, Barcelona has had to part ways with several players in recent seasons, including Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann, and Lionel Messi. Gundogan’s departure would enable the registration of Dani Olmo, the €60 million acquisition from RB Leipzig, for Barcelona’s upcoming match against Athletic Club this Saturday.
City will face newly-promoted Ipswich Town at home in their next outing on Saturday.