According to SPORT, Galatasaray have revived their interest in Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan. However, the Turkish giants would only consider signing the German on a free transfer.
Speculation regarding Gundogan’s future has begun after the midfielder was snubbed from the squad to face Valencia in Barca’s season opener. There have been reports that the player has even contacted his former club Manchester City to explore the possibility of a return.
Gundogan joined the Catalan club on a free transfer last season. He made 51 appearances in his first season at the club, scoring five goals and providing 14 assists.
However, Barcelona can’t guarantee him a first-team spot and won’t mind having his wages off the book. That said, they have left the decision about Gundogan’s future to the player.
Galatsaray’s interest could make matters interesting. Gundogan has previously expressed interest in playing for the Turkish giants later in his career. For now, the Germany captain wants to honor his contract with the Catalan club, which runs until 2025.
Gundogan also has offers from Qatar and Saudi Arabia but could only consider Galatasaray’s offer due to sentimental reasons. The player has Turkish roots and that could play a factor in a potential move to the club.
Hansi Flick meanwhile, expects Gundogan to stay and revealed that the German’s absence from the squad against Valencia was due to fitness issues. Flick said (via Barca Universal):
“I think that Gundogan will stay with us. He was not 100% fit to play today.”
Barcelona’s Ilkay Gundogan considering Manchester City return: Reports
As per Mundo Deportivo, Ilkay Gundogan’s Barcelona future is up in the air. The report shockingly claims that Gundogan is contemplating a return to Manchester City.
The German played 304 matches for the Cityzens, scoring 60 goals and providing 38 assists. He left after winning the European treble with the club in the 2022-23 season. Gundogan won five Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, and more during his stint in English football.
As per the aforementioned report, City are aware of Gundogan’s desire to return to Manchester and open to negotiating a deal.
Gundogan is yet to win a trophy with Barcelona but is one of the few experienced players Barca have in their ranks. The 33-year-old is known for making runs into the boxes and also finding the back of the net.
