Arsenal chief leaks transfer negotiations with elite Man City star during Champions League final – ‘We’re in a good position’

Former Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker, who now works as the club’s head of academy, has provided the inside track on their pursuit of Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan.

The German has just completed an incredible treble with City, as they beat Inter in the Champions League final on Saturday night to add the iconic European trophy to their Premier League and FA Cup triumphs. Gundogan has played a crucial role in City’s success, scoring vital goals in the latter stages of both the Prem and FA Cup.

The midfielder is out of contract at the end of June as things stand and is facing a big decision. Pep Guardiola would love for him to stay on at City and help the club defend all three trophies, but he may opt to leave the Etihad to take part in a new challenge.

Following the Champions League victory in Turkey, Gundogan reiterated the fact he has yet to make a final decision on his future.

Barcelona are trying to come up with a plan to add him to their wage bill, which is already pretty much full. Borussia Dortmund have signalled their desire to take him back to the Bundesliga, while Arsenal have offered him the chance to remain in England.

There have been rumours Barca have moved into pole position for Gundogan by coming to a full agreement with him over personal terms. But neither party has confirmed such an agreement is in place, giving City, Dortmund and Arsenal hope.

READ MORE: Declan Rice to Arsenal: Fabrizio Romano lays out ‘crucial’ timeline for record-breaking transfer as main rivals brushed aside

It could now be Arsenal who are ready to win the race for the 32-year-old. Mertesacker was on ZDF’s coverage of the Champions League final in Germany. When asked about Gundogan, Mertesacker explained how the UCL win could result in the player saying ‘ok, mission accomplished [at City]’ (via Metro).

The coach added: “I think the clubs are queuing.

Arsenal in contact with Ilkay Gundogan, says club chief

“Because [Mikel] Arteta knows him and we probably haven’t broken off contact, we’re in a good position.

“I think he’ll let it all sink in first and then choose from one of the four clubs.”

It is very interesting that Mertesacker has effectively confirmed Arsenal’s interest in Gundogan. This does not happen too often when a player’s future is yet to be decided.

Presumably Arsenal’s interest began as a result of Arteta, who worked with Gundogan while he was Pep Guardiola’s assistant manager at City. Now it looks like Arteta could cause Guardiola a serious headache by snaring one of his most vital stars.

Arsenal’s priority signing in midfield remains Declan Rice, while they are also interested in Moises Caicedo of Brighton.

The North London side have brushed Bayern off in the hunt for Rice, although Chelsea will put up serious competition for Caicedo. Perhaps Arsenal might prioritise Gundogan over Caicedo if the former proves to be far easier to sign.

Given Gundogan’s age, he would not be a long-term solution to their midfield needs. But the serial winner could improve Arsenal’s midfield for a couple of seasons, giving club chiefs enough time to find a younger successor.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s chances of signing a Ligue 1 attacker have gone up after a club president revealed his love for the Gunners.