Ilkay Gundogan seems ever closer to leaving Barcelona this summer, having just arrived from Manchester City in 2023. The veteran midfielder looks very difficult to command a regular starting place at the Catalan giants for the coming season, and with just one year left on his contract, it seems he'd rather leave now for a different challenge.
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Hansi Flick expressed his confidence with Gundogan remaining beyond the summer, but behind the scenes, a different scenario seems to be playing out. Rather surprisingly, a return to Manchester could be on the cards for the 33-year-old.
According to information from Radio Catalunya “La TdT” (via Sport), Gundogan contacted Man City officials earlier this week to gauge their interest in a possible return to the club. It is also reported that the response has been positive, with the reigning Premier League champions apparently keen to re-sign their Champions League-winning captain from the 2022-23 season.
Barcelona he will not stand in Gundogan's way, as long as an amicable agreement has been reached. His salary off the books would help record players who have yet to sign with the League, and would also free up salary cap space for potential new signings.