Two major European clubs weigh up move for Manchester City midfielder on FREE transfer next summer

Manchester City midfielder and current club captain Ilkay Gundogan is at the centre of significant transfer interest from some of Europe's most prominent clubs.

As Etihad officials begin to sound out a list of potential midfield signings for next summer, doubts around their intentions with Gundogan continue to grow.

It is widely known that the club hold a strong admiration for Jude Bellingham at Borussia Dortmund, with the England international expected to command high-level interest from across the continent.

But before any progress can be made regarding any incoming signings, the club will be focussed on sorting out the futures of some of their existing talents.

One name is Ilkay Gundogan, with the German pass-master edging closer towards the expiry of his current deal.

However, according to the information of Relevo journalist Matteo Moretto, Manchester City want to extend Ilkay Gundogan's Etihad Stadium contract, and have already started talks with his agents.

The Germany international's existing deal runs out at the end of the ongoing season, however, there is no agreement between either party at present, despite one not being ruled out across the coming weeks.

The report from Relevo states that Gundogan's environment are open to listening to City's proposals, but prefer to wait until after the upcoming World Cup in Qatar before finalising anything.

From the viewpoint of Ilkay Gundogan himself, it is highlighted that the player is not in a hurry and wants to spend time weighing up his options, with the decision not purely a sporting issue.

Journalist Matteo Moretto states that the experienced midfielder wants to decide what is best for both him and his family, and as such, returning to Germany is an option.

This is where one potential option may come in for the former Borussia Dortmund man.

According to the same report, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are one of two teams most interested in signing Ilkay Gündogan for free next summer, with first contacts having already taken place.

Furthermore, PSG and their chief transfer official Luis Campos hold the City star in 'high esteem' and would be willing to sign him should he become available.

But what does Pep Guardiola think of the situation, and where does Ilkay Gundogan sit in the Catalan coach's current and future plans with the reigning Premier League champions?

The 32-year-old Germany international is described by Relevo as being 'highly appreciated' by Guardiola, who considers his club captain as a key part of the current and future project, for what he can still give on the pitch and in the dressing room in terms of experience.

Ilkay Gundogan certainly played a significant role in Manchester City's most recent Premier League title successes.

His goalscoring antics of the 2020/21 season were followed up by an outstanding individual output the season after, especially complimented by his final day brace against Aston Villa last season to ensure City came from behind to defeat Steven Gerrard's team to the top-flight crown.