A year ago
Arsenal plotting to hijack Barcelona's move for Champions League-winning midfielder .
According to a report by Roger Torello of Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal is intensifying its efforts to secure the signing of Ilkay Gundogan, the Manchester City captain who is also a transfer target for Barcelona, ahead of the summer transfer window. Gundogan's contract with Manchester City is set to expire at the end of this month, making him a free agent from July Despite this, Manchester City is still making attempts to persuade him to renew his contract, as confirmed by their manager, Pep Guardiola, in recent statements.
However, Barcelona appears to have a strong position in the race to sign the 32-year-old German midfielder, having reportedly made a three-year contract offer to him. Nevertheless, there are now claims that Arsenal is eager to disrupt Barcelona's move for Gundogan, as they seek to bolster their midfield options. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is well acquainted with Gundogan from their time together at Manchester City, with Arteta having served as Guardiola's assistant during that period.
Consequently, Arteta is keen to bring Gundogan to the Emirates Stadium and add him to his squad.
While Arsenal is said to be making a concerted effort to secure the signing of Gundogan, the report suggests that Barcelona remains optimistic about their chances of acquiring the services of the experienced midfielder. Barcelona has reportedly received encouraging messages from Gundogan's agent, leading them to believe that the transfer is on the verge of completion. As for Gundogan himself, he maintains that he has yet to make a decision regarding his next move. It is expected that a final decision will be made in the coming days, and it remains to be seen whether he will choose Barcelona, Arsenal, or opt for an extended stay at Manchester City.
In summary, Arsenal is reportedly making a strong push to sign Ilkay Gundogan, who is also a target for Barcelona. While Manchester City is attempting to convince Gundogan to renew his contract, Barcelona is well-positioned with a three-year contract offer. However, Arsenal, under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, is determined to hijack Barcelona's move for Gundogan and strengthen their midfield. The final decision lies with Gundogan, who has yet to make up his mind and is expected to choose between Barcelona, Arsenal, or remaining at Manchester City in the coming days.
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