Ilkay Gundogan on the Verge of a Stunning Return to Manchester City

After a dramatic few days, Manchester City and Ilkay Gundogan have agreed a deal in principle, which will see the 33-year-old midfielder return to Manchester.

Ilkay Gundogan left Manchester City after captaining City to a historic treble, securing their third straight Premier League title, along with the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League during the 2022/23 season. The 33-year-old German international arrived in Barcelona with immense hype and fanfare. However, following an underwhelming 2023/24 season, Barcelona and Ilkay have decided to part ways. This comes as a surprise to many Barca fans, as Gundogan was a key contributor in Barcelona’s preseason under new head coach, Hansi Flick. 

Despite his importance to Barcelona and Hansi Flick, the Blaugrana hierarchy have decided to terminate Gundogan’s contract in order to register big money signing, Dani Olmo. The Barcelona hierarchy informed Gundogan about their plans a couple of days back, and since then several clubs have inquired about the 33-year-old. He attracted significant amount of interest from Saudi Arabia and Qatar. However, it looks like Gundogan is on the verge of a stunning return to Manchester City. 

Ilkay Gundogan will sign a one-year contract with the option of a further year. According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, City manager Pep Guardiola played a key role in convincing Gundo to come back to Manchester. He also added that, “Ilkay Gündogan has said goodbye to all his Barça teammates this morning while clubs are completing all the documents. Gündogan has accepted to leave on free transfer; he’ll NOT receive two-year salary remaining on his Barça contract. Man City, set to welcome him back.” 

Manchester City also eyeing Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi 

Manchester City were dealt a heavy blow when Atletico Madrid swooped in to acquire Julian Alvarez. The 24-year-old had established himself as one of Pep’s most trusted players. However, the Argentine wasn’t satisfied being the back-up to Erling Haaland. As a result, he agreed a move to Atletico Madrid. City received a club record transfer fee. Despite losing Alvarez, the Citizens weren’t actively looking to sign players. However, a horrible leg injury to Oscar Bobb has forced City to dip back into the market. 

The Citizens have identified Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi as a key target. According to Fabrizio Romano, “Manchester City are considering a move for Kyogo Furuhashi from Celtic, one of the options for winger position. Initial talks took place this week.” The 29-year-old forward made 44 appearances for Celtic in the SPL and Champions League. In those appearances, Furuhashi racked up 16 goals and 5 assists. Despite City’s interest, this deal could take time, as City’s priority is to complete Ilkay Gundogan’s signing. 

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