Barcelona ready to listen to transfer offers for in-form Ilkay Gundogan due to alarming situation at club: Reports
Barcelona are reportedly prepared to listen to offers for Ilkay Gundogan as their financial situation continues to be problematic. The German midfielder arrived at Camp Nou last summer but could be set for an early exit.
SPORT journalist Toni Juanmarti reports that Barca will entertain offers for Gundogan because of their Financial Fairplay situation. The 33-year-old is currently on international duty with Germany and impressing at Euro 2024.
Gundogan arrived at Barcelona last summer after his contract with Manchester City expired. He made a superb start to life in Catalonia with five goals and 14 assists in 51 games across competitions.
Joan Laporta is said to appreciate Gundogan's abilities, but the Catalans' difficult economic situation could lead to his departure. He has one year left on his contract and reportedly earns a yearly salary of €20 million.
The Blaugrana may even cash in on the 80-cap Germany captain at a low fee because of their financial situation. He doesn't want to leave Camp Nou, and the La Liga giants won't force him out, but offers will be considered.
Gundogan is shining at Euro 2024 and could captain his nation to glory on home soil this summer. He's started his campaign with one goal and two assists in three games.
"He has a big impact there" - Julian Nagelsmann on where he feels Barcelona's Gundogan operates best
Julian Nagelsmann has unintentionally informed Barcelona how to get the best of of Gundogan. The former City star has been a standout performer under the German coach since he replaced Hansi Flick. He said (via Barca Blaugranes):
"I count him as part of the spine that we have from front to back. He has players next to him who take more risks. I think that’s his best position. Even in the year of the Champions League victory with City, he always played very high up the pitch. He has a big impact there."
Gundogan particularly impressed in Germany's 2-0 win against Hungary (June 19). He was named Player of the Match for an excellent performance that was capped off with a typically well-taken goal.
The veteran Barcelona star played in attacking midfield just behind Kai Havertz and alongside Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. He excelled with two key passes, winning two of three ground and aerial duels, and grabbed an assist.
Gundogan became a City hero during his time at the Etihad and one of Pep Guardiola's favorites. He bagged 60 goals and 38 assists in 304 games.