Barcelona eyeing move for Manchester City star in 2023 – Romano

Barcelona are keeping a close watch on Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan situation as they could look to swoop in for him on a Bosman deal next year.

The 31-year-old was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at City and has been a key asset for the Catalan during his tenure in Manchester.

Winning four Premier League titles amongst a host of domestic silverware at City, the German has enjoyed his fair share of collective accolades in England.

However, there remains uncertainty over what the long-term future holds for Ilkay Gundogan at the Etihad Stadium as the former Borussia Dortmund star remains in his final year of contract at City.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are among the clubs interested in signing the Manchester City midfielder on a free transfer next summer.

The transfer insider states that Barça already had Gundogan on their agenda during this past summer’s transfer window and considered making a move for the former Borussia Dortmund ace.

However, with the club focusing their efforts on other targets, a move did not materialise and Gundogan ended up staying at Manchester City, as he still wishes to win the UEFA Champions League with Pep Guardiola’s side.

The silky midfielder has made a strong start to the season, having developed a special link with in-form Erling Haaland following his summer arrival from Borussia Dortmund.

Gundogan opened his account for the season in Manchester City’s 4-0 triumph over Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium.

He further opened the scoring in City’s enthralling 3-3 draw against Newcastle at St. James’ Park, showing time and again his late runs in the box remain an effective route to goal despite the signing of Haaland.

It remains to be seen if City offer Gundogan an extended contract or if the Premier League champions allow the club captain to move on and bring in a new midfielder if he departs the club next summer.

Despite competing directly with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and David Silva during his time at City, Gundogan’s versatility and effectiveness has helped him remain a vital fixture in Guardiola’s squad.