Arsenal move for key Man City player takes leap forward as Guardiola scrambles to avert disaster

Manchester City have included Ilkay Gundogan on their ‘released players list’ and Arsenal are firmly in the race to sign him this summer.

Pep Guardiola offered the 32-year-old a contract extension, but this suggests he has decided to run down his deal in favour of a move elsewhere.

As a result, he could be available on a free transfer. So, it will be interesting to see if Arsenal can win the race for Gundogan, amid competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.

Man City submitted their ‘released list’ to the Premier League on Friday. It suggests that Gundogan will become a free agent upon the expiry of his contract on June 30th.

Although, it’s worth noting that nothing is finalised yet. As noted by the Manchester Evening News, Gundogan has to appear on the club’s released list even if there is a chance he could stay, with contract talks still ongoing.

Nevertheless, Arsenal could still make a move for the Germany international. As previously reported by TEAMtalk, the Gunners feel they are in a ‘good position’ to sign Gundogan. 

However, with PSG and Barcelona still in the race, they face heated competition for his signature.

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Arsenal to battle PSG, Barca for Gundogan

It’s no secret that Mikel Arteta is keen to improve his midfield options ahead of next season.

West Ham captain Declan Rice remains his priority, but, he could still potentially sign both Gundogan and the England international.

However, as mentioned, Arsenal are not the only team interested in signing Gundogan this summer.

Indeed, both PSG and Barcelona hold a firm interest in the midfielder. So, they will do everything they can to seal a deal.

In fact, previous reports suggest that the Catalans have reached an agreement on personal terms with Gundogan. So, a switch to LaLiga is still possible.

Since arriving at Man City in 2016, the Germany international has made 304 appearances for the Premier League champions, scoring 60 goals and making 40 assists.

In the process, Gundogan has helped his team to win 14 major trophies. This season has been the highlight of his career, though, captaining Man City to a historic treble.

If there was ever a time for Gundogan to bow out in style, it’s probably now. But, Guardiola still has a couple of weeks to tie him down to a new deal, so it will be interesting to see how this develops.

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