Transfer Centre

Ilkay Gundogan 'makes decision on Manchester City future'

By Ben Sully | 14 April 2023

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan reportedly reaches a decision on his future with the Premier League champions.

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly expected to join Barcelona on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Since joining the Citizens in the summer of 2016, Gundogan has made 293 appearances for the club, registering 54 goals and 38 assists.

During his time with Man City, the 32-year-old has won four Premier League titles, four League Cups and an FA Cup trophy.

Gundogan was elected club captain ahead of the current campaign where he has continued to play a key role for Pep Guardiola's side.

The Germany international has gone on to score five goals and provide five assists in 40 competitive appearances this season.

Manchester City's Bernardo Silva comes on as a substitute to replace Ilkay Gundogan on January 19, 2023 © Reuters

Despite playing regularly for the Citizens, his seven-year association with the club appears to be coming towards its conclusion.

Gundogan's current contract expires in June 2023, and although Man City have reportedly offered the German a new deal, negotiations between the two parties have made little progress.

Guardiola is keen to retain the services of one of Man City's dressing room leaders, but he is also reluctant to stand in the player's way should he decide to seek a fresh challenge.

According to Football Insider, Gundogan has decided to leave Man City when his contract expires, with Barcelona believed to be his next destination.

Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan wears a rainbow coloured armband on October 29, 2022 © Reuters

Due to Barcelona's ongoing financial issues, they are expected to utilise free transfers in the summer window.

A recent report claimed that Barcelona have informed Gundogan's representatives that he is a priority target ahead of the 2023-24 season.

Having spent his entire career in Germany and England, Gundogan is set to try his hand in the Spanish top flight.

The Man City captain still has a vital role to play for his side in the closing stages of the season, with the Citizens looking to retain the Premier League title and win the Champions League for the very first time.

Gundogan is expected to be involved when Man City play host to relegation-threatened Leicester City on Saturday.