Barcelon dealt a setback in their pursuit of Man City midfield maestro

Barcelona have been dealt a setback in their pursuit of Manchester City midfield maestro Ilkay Gundogan.

The 32-year-old has been with the Premier League giants since 2016, arriving at the club at the same time as Pep Guardiola. And he has been a key member of the success that Man City have achieved over the past six years.

The former Borussia Dortmund man is one of the many midfielders on the radars of Barcelona as they look to reinforce the centre of the park ahead of Sergio Busquets’ impending summer exit.

The German international is a player reportedly admired by manager Xavi Hernandez, who is said to be keen on signing him next summer.

Gundogan is in the final year of his contract with Manchester City and would be available for a free transfer in 2023, making him an attractive prospect for the Blaugrana, who are still reeling from financial problems.

However, according to reports, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have been dealt a setback in their pursuit of Gundogan as the midfielder may have already decided to renew his contract with Manchester City.

The report shared on Twitter gathered a number of replies from a wide range of Man City supporters.

“As expected because we need depth in CM.”
Credit: @JakerulesFC

“They can’t afford the wages and he doesn’t want to go? Yeah that’s a setback.”
Credit: @LeeAnde32865281

“Pay your players first Barca”
Credit: @city_rabin