- The city manager, Guardiola, expresses interest in re-recruiting Gündogan.
A Potential Return for Ilkay Gündogan with Manchester City isn't Off the Table. As per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has given the green light for the German veteran's return. According to multiple sources, Barcelona is looking to sell Gündogan this summer transfer window.
Guardiola seems keen on re-recruiting the 33-year-old midfielder. The initial talks with Gündogan's camp took place on Monday, and negotiations are still ongoing. The ultimate decision rests with Gündogan, who also has offers coming in from Saudi Arabia, Romano informs.
Gündogan has claimed five Premiership titles and a Champions League trophy with City over a seven-year spell.
Previously, Sky Sports reported that Barça had made it clear to Gündogan, who announced his retirement from the German national team on Monday, that he should move on during this transfer window. According to Spanish newspaper "AS", Flick told sporting director Deco that Gündogan doesn't fit into his tactical philosophy. However, Flick's recent statements have given a different impression.
Based on information from Catalan newspaper "Sport", Barcelona is allegedly attempting to "generate revenue through the sale of Gündogan". Consequently, they have reportedly offered Gündogan to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr featuring Cristiano Ronaldo.
On August 8, Gündogan's agent and uncle Ilhan revealed that despite interest from several clubs, Gündogan wants to remain at Barça. Gündogan's contract with City expires in summer 2026, having joined them on a free transfer in 2023.
The level of association between Gündogan and Manchester City remains strong, considering his previous successes and the ongoing negotiations for a potential return. Barcelona's aim to sell Gündogan this summer suggests a different level of association for the midfielder with his current club.
