The agent of Ilkay Gundogan has dismissed claims that the Manchseter City midfielder has agreed to remain at Etihad Stadium, with Arsenal and Barcelona also interested.
Gundogan’s contract expires at the end of the month, and he has been sought by a number of clubs, with his agent free to speak with foreign clubs since the turn of the year.
The 32-year-old was reported to be on his way to Barcelona, while Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has also made a late push to bring the German to north London.
According to recent reports, Gundogan’s key contribution for City in their pursuit for the treble has sparked a change of heart.
The Premier League champions initially offered their captain a one-year extension, but his outstanding form – and Pep Guardiola’s desire to keep him – prompted the club to boost their offer to a two-year contract.
Gundogan was expected to accept City’s increased offer, but his agent and brother, Ilhan, has put an end to speculation that the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has already opted to stay at the Etihad.
‘Nothing has been agreed with City or any other club,’ Ilhan told Fabrizio Romano when asked about rumours Gundogan has committed to stay at City.
‘The recent reports are not true. Ilkay is only focused on the [Champions League] final.’
🚨 EXCL. Ilkay Gündogan’s agent Ilhan on rumours of new deal agreed and set to be signed with Man City: “Nothing has been agreed with City or any other club”, told me. #MCFC
“The recent reports are NOT true. Ilkay is only focused on the final”, Gündogan’s agent replies. pic.twitter.com/DEKg5GeZiV
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 5, 2023
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Gundogan scored back-to-back Premier League braces against Leeds and Everton to help City win their third consecutive title, and he also scored both goals in Sunday’s FA Cup final victory over rivals Manchester United.
Gundogan’s agent has been seen several times visiting Barcelona’s offices in Catalonia in recent months, with Xavi reported to see him as a perfect addition to bring experience in the aftermath of Sergio Busquets’ departure.
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