On June 30, when Ilkay Gundogan’s contract expires, Barcelona and Manchester City will have reached a deal for Gundogan to join them as a free agent, sources told ESPN.
Gundogan, 32, decided against accepting an extension to his seven-year contract with City as well as offers from Premier League team Arsenal and teams in Saudi Arabia, according to sources. Instead, he signed a two-year deal with Barca with an option for a third year.
Gundogan got a physical on Wednesday, and the findings are still pending, according to sources.
Due to their continued financial difficulties, Barcelona looked into the free agent market. In March, ESPN reported that Barca was in contact with the Germany international.
According to sources speaking to ESPN, City would only extend a contract for one year with a second-year option because they were unwilling to match Barca’s cash offer.
Last summer, Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie both joined on free transfers. According to sources and reports by ESPN, defender Inigo Martinez is reportedly expected to leave Athletic Club this month and join Barca.
After missing out on Lionel Messi, who will join Inter Miami, coach Xavi Hernandez voiced a desire to increase the team’s creativity and goal total from midfield. Gundogan joins Barca.
When Pedri was injured last season, according to Xavi, Barca struggled, and Gundogan is considered as someone who can assist relieve some of the pressure on the young midfielder from Spain.
Although reports claim the club would still like to sign a direct replacement for the leaving Sergio Busquet, Barca values the former Borussia Dortmund player’s versatility in the middle of the pitch, notably his ability to operate in a deeper role.
After leading the English team to a historic treble that included their first Champions League championship earlier this month, Gundogan is ending his stay at City.
In 51 appearances this season, the midfielder scored 11 goals, including a hat trick against Manchester United in the FA Cup final. He leaves City with 14 trophies overall and five Premier League championships.