Report: Barcelona Waiting For Ilkay Gundogan Final Decision Over Future
As the business end of the season approaches, clubs across the world are already working tirelessly toward the upcoming summer transfer window. The idea is to reach and seal an agreement with top targets before June, when clubs across the globe will swoop towards available options.
Barcelona, on that front, have made significant progress in the acquisition of Inigo Martinez which appears close to being sealed. The next player, the Catalans, wish to reach an agreement with is Ilkay Gundogan.
Xavi Hernandez admires the German international’s profile and sees him as a valuable option for the club’s midfield next season. If Sergio Busquets were to leave, especially, Gundogan’s experience would come as a significant boost.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugranas are waiting for the midfielder’s final decision surrounding his future. The process is delayed, however, because Manchester City are still fighting for the treble, and Gundogan is completely invested in the current season.
The veteran midfielder will be out of contract in June, and his availability as a free agent makes him ideal for Barcelona’s situation. His signing will not be a simple affair, for the Catalans face stiff competition from Chelsea, who will not hesitate to splash the cash.
Gundogan publicly admitted to his future being undecided when asked about his links with Barcelona last month. Yet, his reply cryptically hinted towards the possibility of it materialising.
“Barcelona deal done? My future is not yet decided — obviously, there are talks in the background. But I won’t go into details now. I have not signed anything yet.”
If he does arrive at Spotify Camp Nou in June, Gundogan would serve as a versatile option to not only cover as an interior but also an able defensive midfielder. Moreover, his experience playing under Pep Guardiola would ease his transition to the Catalans’ system.
