Arsenal’s interest in pursuing a deal for Ilkay Gundogan has emerged. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season with Manchester City, the German midfielder has caught the attention of the Gunners in case he fails to reach a renewal agreement with the Citizens.
So far, Gundogan has not accepted the terms proposed by the Etihad Stadium team for a renewal, which has increased London’s interest. Manchester City is only willing to offer a one-year extension, while Barcelona is prepared to provide him with a two-year contract.
At this stage, it is unclear what terms Arsenal is ready to put on the table, but there is likely room in the squad for an experienced player, especially since Granit Xhaka is in negotiations to join Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth around €15 million (£80 million).
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants to sign two central midfielders this summer, with West Ham’s Declan Rice and Brighton’s Moises Caicedo among them. However, Gundogan would be a much cheaper option.
Arsenal also holds the advantage of Arteta’s influence, as the Spanish coach worked with the midfielder during his three years as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at City. Arteta convinced Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko to switch from City to Arsenal last summer, and Gundogan’s vast experience is seen as a highly valuable asset.
Despite strong links to a transfer to Barcelona, sources have stated that City has not given up hope of retaining Gundogan. Guardiola was questioned about Gundogan’s future in a press conference on Tuesday (23), but he refused to reveal anything.
Sources have said that City is working on a deal for Gundogan, which may include a one-year contract with an option to extend for another year. Coach Mikel Arteta has already requested the Arsenal board to bring in reinforcements for the midfield. Declan Rice from West Ham and Moises Caicedo from Brighton are at the top of the list of interests.
