According to TZ, Bayern Munich want to take Ilkay Gundogan away from the Premier League, although Arsenal are also interested.
What’s the story?
Well, just days after winning Manchester City the Premier League title with a late goal against Aston Villa, the German’s future is uncertain.
The £150,000-a-week man’s contract expires in June 2023, and he is said to have been told by Manchester City that an extension is unlikely.
Pep Guardiola is willing to sell the 31-year-old for just £17m, with Arsenal – and now Bayern Munich – monitoring the situation.
It comes after Gundogan started 20 of Manchester City’s 38 Premier League games this season, in what was a “difficult” campaign for the midfielder – his words, not ours.
In 43 appearances across all competitions, the Manchester City No.8 scored ten goals, while also providing six assists.
It was a significant drop off from last term, in which he impressively scored 17 goals in all competitions.
Arsenal may struggle to fend off Bayern Munich
In our view, Mikel Arteta won’t be pleased to hear that Bayern Munich are now interested in signing Gundogan.
The Bavarians are the biggest side in Germany, and as his career begins to dwindle out – Gundogan turns 32 in October – he may fancy a return to his homeland.
Having said that, he may refrain from ruining his reputation among Borussia Dortmund supporters by joining their rivals.
Gundogan spent five years with Borussia Dortmund, where he made 157 appearances and scored in a Champions League final – coincidentally against Bayern Munich.
Whatever happens, Arsenal now face competition from a European giant, managed by one of the best coaches around in Julian Nagelsmann, which certainly isn’t good for the Gunners.
Bayern Munich can also offer Gundogan Champions League football, a factor which could prove decisive.
Keep an eye on this situation, as Gundogan’s future should soon become clearer.
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