Barcelona Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly looking to leave the club just a year after joining as a free agent from Manchester City.
The German was left out of the squad for the league match against Valencia last weekend and the Blaugrana are willing to let him go for free.
There has been talk of Manchester City re-signing Gundogan. However, Arsenal They are also 'trying to sign him' this summer, According to journalist Francois Plateau.
In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Plateau added that Arteta is a “huge admirer” of Gundogan and “keeps keen to sign him” after “failing to secure his services” last summer.
The duo have worked together at the Etihad Stadium, although it remains unclear whether or not Gundogan has been receptive to Arsenal's interest in signing him.
Arsenal could turn to Gündogan after signing Merino
The Gunners are Currently in active talks to buy Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad. Arteta has been interested in a deep-lying midfielder and the La Liga star has emerged as a prime target for the manager.
While there isn't much progress regarding Gundogan's future, it could be addressed once Merino's signing is finalised.
The 33-year-old has a winning pedigree, having enjoyed highly successful spells at both Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City. He even won five Premier League titles with the Cityzens.
Arteta would benefit from the addition of an experienced name to a young dressing room and, most importantly, a player who performs incredibly well when the pressure is at its highest during the season.
Although Arsenal are interested in Gundogan, there is still no sign that they have started formal talks with the player or his entourage. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola is already one step ahead of his former assistant. given the green light the midfielder's possible second term at City.
It remains to be seen whether Gundogan chooses City for a second spell or is drawn by the chance to guide Arsenal to their first Premier League crown in two decades.
