Spanish journalist says Man City star will sign for La Liga giants this summer

Barcelona have already closed the signing of Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan for the summer transfer window, according to journalist Jose Alvarez.

The Germany international midfielder is into the final few months of his existing Etihad Stadium contract, with talks between the player, his representatives and Manchester City yet to get going.

That has meant that Gundogan has been free to discuss his future and potential options with any clubs across the continent and further afield, with a number of Europe’s premier teams showing a keen interest in the 32 year-old.

Barcelona are in the market for reinforcements in the middle of the park for the summer as question marks remain over the continuity of club captain Sergio Busquets. Furthermore, Franck Kessie’s future also remains uncertain as he has failed to adapt at the club.

Amidst this, Barcelona have been looking for cost-effective options to reinforce their midfield at the end of the season. Given their financial situation, another dip in the free-transfer pool remains very much on the agenda.

And reports in England earlier this week insisted that the Blaugrana were seriously interested in signing Gundogan at the end of the season.

According to El Chiringuito reporter Jose Alvarez Haya, Barcelona will sign Man City’s Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer once his contract at the Etihad expires at the end of the season as the Catalan club look to replace the outgoing Sergio Busquets.

🚨 Ilkay Gundogan will sign for Barcelona this summer on a free transfer! ✅

The German international is out of contract in June at Manchester City.

(Source: @10JoseAlvarez) pic.twitter.com/DCHl2TVlTC

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 19, 2023