The agent of Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has been spotted talking to Barcelona’s representatives, which suggests he could head to the Camp Nou.
The German international’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, so he will be available on a free transfer in the summer.
If Barca could seal a deal for Gundogan it would be a shrewd bit of business, as despite being 32, he is still capable of performing at the highest level.
City took a big forward step in the title race on Wednesday, beating Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates to send them to the top of the Premier League.
Gundogan played the full 90 minutes, putting in a fine performance in a crucial game. He helped City control the midfield, breaking up the Gunners’ attacks and consistently supplying quality passes to his teammates.
In fact, he provided a fine assist for Jack Grealish’s goal on the 72nd minute, which gave the Cityzens a 2-1 lead.
Despite still being a key player under Pep Guardiola, Gundogan looks almost certain to be leaving the Etihad at the end of the season, after failing to sign a contract extension.
Multiple clubs are said to be interested in the German’s signature, but given these latest developments, it seems LaLiga giants Barcelona are leading the race.
Gundogan’s agent spotted at Barca HQ
According to journalist Gerard Romero, Gundogan’s entourage held talks with Barcelona on Thursday.
His agent reportedly spent all morning at the Catalan’s headquarters and was caught on film when leaving the facilities.
Romero added that with the midfielder being available on a free transfer in the summer, he is a ‘very real’ option for Barca.
This suits the Spanish giants given that they aren’t currently in a position to be making big investments due to their ongoing financial issues, which has restricted their spending over the past few years.
Barcelona manager Xavi currently has some top midfielders at his disposal, with the likes of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Franck Kessie being regulars in his starting XI.
However, with De Jong still greatly admired by Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, he could end up leaving the Camp Nou this summer.
With Manchester City, Gundogan has won four Premier League titles, an FA Cup and four League Cups. Therefore, he could help bring a winning mentality to the Barca dressing room as Xavi looks to build a team that can dominate Europe once again.
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The German could certainly provide some top-quality cover in the middle of the park for the Catalans, so they will be keen to win the race for his signature.
Paris Saint-Germain are also thought to be admirers of the midfielder, but it is believed that Gundogan’s preference would be to head to LaLiga.
For now, though, Gundogan’s focus will be on the title race with City, as he looks to lift a fifth Premier League title.
Source: teamtalk.com
