Barcelona have announced the arrival of Manchester City hero Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer, following months of uncertainty surrounding the German’s future.
The star was instrumental as Pep Guardiola’s side stormed to a historic treble, and the 32-year-old often stepped up in crucial moments to help lead City to glory.
Manchester City were reportedly keen on keeping their captain, but on a shorter contract than he would have liked, and Barcelona‘s offer proved more tempting in the end.
Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed the details of Ilkay Gundogan‘s Barcelona contract. His deal with the Blaugrana will run until 2025, with an option to extend for a third year, whilst also containing a €400m release clause.
Ilkay Gundogan only wanted Barcelona
The former Manchester City man will arrive at Barcelona as a world-class player at the top of his game, having left arguably the best team in the world.
There will be much excitement over his arrival, and Xavi will be delighted that the club have found a way to replace the experience and leadership of Sergio Busquets in midfield.
Gundogan will also have endeared himself to the Barcelona faithful already, having reportedly turned down offers from City, Arsenal and clubs in Saudi Arabia, as a move to the La Liga champions was the only option that appealed to him.
It remains to be seen what kind of midfield role Xavi has lined up for him: whether he will directly replace Busquets as the deeper option, or continue in his box-to-box position which saw him score 11 goals in all competitions last season.
Gundogan joins as Barca’s first arrival this summer, with Inigo Martinez also expected to arrive as a free agent from Athletic Bilbao, as Xavi aims to retain the La Liga title and progress further in the Champions League.
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