Pep Guardiola could push for a reunion with his former playmaker
Manchester City could look to kill two birds with one stone by striking a swap deal with Barcelona this summer.
Pep Guardiola’s side have remained quiet in the transfer window, with the arrival of Savinho from sister club Troyes being their only signing so far. Instead, outgoings have been the focus of many conversations.
Several stars have been loaned out, including Kalvin Phillips, whilst fringe stars like Sergio Gomez and Liam Delap have been sold permanently. Julian Alvarez was also granted his much-desired move to Atletico Madrid, which has seen City return to the market.
The Etihad Stadium outfit are in the market for a creative player to replace the Argentina international, and the stars may have aligned for the ideal acquisition: Ilkay Gundogan.
Just 12 months after leaving City for Barcelona, The Athletic report that the midfielder is ‘exploring his options’, with a move away from the Nou Camp firmly on the cards. Clubs in England, Turkey and Saudi Arabia are interested.
It is unclear whether City are among Gundogan’s suitors, but the playmaker could tick a lot of boxes for his former club. The 33-year-old is able to play as a No. 6 to provide cover for Rodri, as well as in more attacking roles.
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Gundogan would need no time to settle under Guardiola, and his ability to play as a makeshift striker when required cannot be understated given that City currently lack a proven player who can provide cover for Erling Haaland. An injection of quality and experience would presumably be welcomed in the dressing room as well.
Barcelona are unlikely to part ways with Gundogan cheaply, though City could have an ace up their sleeve in talks with the La Liga outfit.
Barcelona retain an interest in signing Joao Cancelo
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It is no secret that Joao Cancelo does not have a long-term future at City, and he could be the ideal makeweight in negotiations with Barca given that the Catalan giants have spoken openly about how they would like to retain his services.
The Portugal international spent last season on loan with the club but a second agreement is yet to be brokered, which could play into the hands of City if they rule that they’d like to reunite with Gundogan.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1937971/Man-City-transfer-news-Ilkay-Gundogan-Joao-Cancelo