Barcelona Score Sensational Deal: Man City Midfielder Gundogan Set for Free Transfer
Ilkay Gundogan, the instrumental captain of Manchester City, led the club to a remarkable treble triumph last season However, after failing to reach an agreement for a new contract, the German midfielder is now poised to make a sensational move to Barcelona on a free transfer
Barcelona have reached an agreement to bring Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City to their team, with the midfielder expected to sign a three-year contract. While the move has not been officially confirmed by either club, Manchester City has taken a practical approach considering Gundogan's age and his desire for a longer contract, which aligns with similar situations in recent years.
Gundogan had been engaged in discussions with City regarding a new contract as his current one was nearing its expiration at the end of June. Nonetheless, the duration of the proposed deal for the 32-year-old, which consisted of a one-year term with an additional option for 12 more months, became a contentious issue. It should be noted that Arsenal also expressed their interest in signing Gundogan.
The influential former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the Champions League in his seven years at City.
Gundogan enjoyed a triumphant 2022/23 season, clinching three trophies as City solidified their position as the second English team to achieve a treble.
Meanwhile, Man City has recently reached a £30m agreement to acquire the services of Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic, a move that could help offset the departure of Gundogan.
Kovacic has been a member of Chelsea since his move from Real Madrid in the summer of 2018, initially on loan. The fee for his transfer is believed to be £25m guaranteed, with an additional £5m in performance-related add-ons. An official announcement confirming his move to last season's treble winners is anticipated in the near future.
The Croatia international has achieved great success during his tenure at Chelsea, securing four major trophies, including his fourth Champions League title in 2021. Furthermore, he has made a remarkable 221 appearances for the club.
Walker wants Man City stay despite Bayern interest | PSG target Silva can leave
Kyle Walker is reportedly leaning towards staying at Manchester City instead of joining Bayern Munich, despite the Bundesliga champions showing interest in signing the defender. The 33-year-old is said to have a desire to continue his career at the Etihad and is open to signing a contract extension.
Walker has one year left on his current deal and City have no desire to sell him this summer.
Man City will also not stand in Bernardo Silva's way if he wishes to leave the club.
Paris Saint-Germain has expressed their keen interest in acquiring his services, with Barcelona also being long-term admirers of the Portuguese international.
Silva reportedly contemplated a departure from City last summer, but the move never materialized.
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Stay tuned to find out which players will be making moves this summer as the transfer window officially opens on June 14 and closes at 11pm on September 1 in England, and midnight in Scotland.For all the latest transfer news and rumors, head over to our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. Don't miss out on in-depth analysis and updates on player transfers on We News.
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