Ilkay Gundogan is ready to join Barcelona
When Ilkay Gundogan‘s contract with Manchester City expires on June 30, sources told ESPN that Barcelona and Manchester City had reached an agreement for Gundogan to join them as a free agent.
According to sources, Gundogan, 32, has rejected offers to prolong his seven-season stint at City as well as those from Premier League team Arsenal and teams in Saudi Arabia in favor of a two-year deal with Barca that includes an option for a third year.
The agreement is subject to Gundogan’s Wednesday physical exam results, according to sources.
Due to their persistent financial problems, Barcelona looked into the free agent market, and ESPN reported in March that they were in contact with the Germany international.
According to sources speaking to ESPN, City would only extend a contract for one year with a second-year option because they were unwilling to match Barca’s cash offer.
Last summer, Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie both joined on free transfers. According to sources and reports by ESPN, defender Inigo Martinez is reportedly expected to leave Athletic Club this month and join Barca.
After missing out on Lionel Messi, who will join Inter Miami, coach Xavi Hernandez voiced a desire to increase the team’s creativity and goal total from midfield. Gundogan joins Barca.
Gundogan is viewed as someone who can help relieve some of the pressure off the young Spain midfielder, who Xavi thought that Barca suffered when Pedri was injured last season.
Although reports claim the club would still like to sign a direct replacement for the leaving Sergio Busquets, Barca values the former Borussia Dortmund player’s versatility in the middle of the pitch, notably his ability to operate in a deeper role.
Gundogan is leaving City after leading the English team to a historic triple, which culminated in their first Champions League victory.
