Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has reportedly been on the radar of Barcelona as far back as last summer.
The 32-year-old’s future is the subject of constant speculation at the moment.
His current deal at the Etihad Stadium expires in the summer.
Speaking ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayern, Gundogan stated that nothing has been sorted yet, but that talks are happening.
In recent times there have been lots of reports about interest from Barca in Gundogan, who cost City a reported £20 million back in 2016.
The Spanish heavyweights are looking to snap up the maestro, with their financial issues meaning some free signings will undoubtedly be the on the agenda.
Today, Fabrizio Romano has provided some information as to how much Barca actually like Gundogan.
According to him, they’ve wanted him since last summer.
He said on the House of Champions: A CBS Soccer Podcast: “I am sure they want Gundogan. It is something they wanted to do last summer. But Gundogan was not (about to be) out of contract at City. He decided to stay. He’s always been appreciated in Barcelona.
“Gundogan is a player they love. They feel he’s a bit underrated. He’s a player who’s always there when it comes to scoring goals and providing assists. He’s a big leader and experienced player. And so Barcelona would love to sign Gundogan. They’ve had some contacts.
“At the moment nothing is signed, nothing is agreed. Gundogan gives total priority to Manchester City.”
There have also been claims Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are keen.
Man City should see about keeping Ilkay Gundogan for one more season, as Barcelona remain hopeful of transfer deal
Gundogan may be 32 now, but he is still playing to a top level.
He is a wonderful footballer, and is without doubt one of the best signings the club have made since the takeover in 2008.
It is little wonder Barcelona really appreciate him.
Arguably, he does remain a really underrated player.
Hopefully, he can be convinced to sign a new contract by the club. Not only is he still doing the business on the pitch, but he is also one of the leaders at the club and hugely respected in the dressing room.
