Ilkay Gundogan has been linked with a surprise return to Manchester City after the midfielder revealed he ‘wants an immediate return’ to the Etihad.
Gundogan has been frozen out at Barcelona after making the move there last summer following a glittering last season with Pep Guardiola’s men which saw him win a historic treble.
He only signed a deal lasting two years when he ended his seven-year stay at the Etihad, however, and is now into the final year of his contract.
According to Spanish publication Sport (via Daily Mail) the German international has reportedly informed the club he wants to leave after being left out of the side for their 2-1 win over Valencia.
And his preferred destination could be a return to Manchester after failing to kick on following his departure from the club.
According to Guardiola is reportedly ‘open’ to reuniting with Gundogan, as the Spaniard hunts for reinforcements after a long-term injury to forward Oscar Bobb.
The 33-year-old has endured a tough spell at the Spanish giants, scoring just five goals in 51 appearances and undergoing his first trophy-less season in seven years.
Barcelona have brought in Euro 2024 star Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig in the same position as the ex-City man but manager and compatriot Hansi Flick said he expects Gundogan to stay in LaLiga.
“I think he’s gonna end up staying at Barca,” he said.
“He was out tonight as he had some discomfort.
“I spoke to Ilkay, but that stays between us as it’s private conversation.”
The report from Sport claims Gundogan told the coaching staff that he has had ‘enough’ and is hoping all parties can help him find an exit from the club.
As to where the 33-year-old may land next, the report claims he has several admirers in Turkey as well as in Saudi Arabia.
