Ambitious new contender emerges for Ilkay Gundogan transfer amid Man City crossroads

Ilkay Gundogan could be presented with another exit route from Manchester City after emerging as a dream target for Roma, according to reports in Italy.

Gundogan is facing an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium, where he is only under contract for another year. This could be the last chance Manchester City have to sell him, unless they can arrange a contract extension.

The 31-year-old will still be attractive to a number of top clubs. Indeed, the Premier League champions would like to keep him in an ideal world.

But he will be considering all his options, aware that he must be playing regularly if he wants to make it into Germany’s squad for the World Cup this winter. Hence, a transfer away from Manchester City could be on the cards.

In that regard, a recent report claimed Juventus and Barcelona have been showing an interest. Of these suitors, the latter would be particularly interesting to Gundogan, since they are supposedly his dream club.

However, there could yet be new competition for his transfer. According to Leggo, Jose Mourinho’s Roma are now dreaming of signing Gundogan – who was recently spotted in the Italian capital.

Mourinho wants to strengthen his Roma midfield this summer, with multiple signings expected. First, he is reuniting with former Man Utd pupil Nemanja Matic to provide him with the stability he needs.

But the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss is likely to enter the market again for another high-level midfielder. Roma have been linked with a few Premier League players in that role, such as Douglas Luiz, Yves Bissouma or Ruben Neves.

But their standout capture could turn out to be Gundogan, if the pieces fall into place.

Although Gundogan’s reported £140,000-per-week salary would be beyond Roma’s reach in theory, Italian taxation laws for foreign athletes could help them manage the investment.

Pros and cons for Gundogan exit routes

Therefore, the Giallorossi still have a chance of landing Gundogan. However, it is reiterated that Barcelona are the favourites to sign him at present.

There would be pros and cons to either move. At Barcelona, traditionally the bigger club, Champions League involvement would be on offer. However, he would still face competition for places, from the likes of Pedri, Sergio Busquets and Gavi.

Ilkay Gundogan to leave Man City this summer

Manchester City will shop Ilkay Gundogan this summer with links to Real Madrid

On the other hand, at Roma, Gundogan’s starting place would be virtually guaranteed. However, competing in the Europa League instead would represent a step down for his career.

Hence, there is a lot to weigh up for Gundogan at present. It is easy to see why he may want to wait for Barcelona, in case they formalise their interest.

If not, a move to Serie A – either with previous suitors Juventus or new contenders Roma – could be one to consider.

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