Arsenal plotting move for Ilkay Gundogan amid Man City contract stand-off

Arsenal are reportedly weighing up a move for Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, amid concerns over a new contract at the Etihad.

Gundogan has hit a purple patch of form in recent weeks, scoring four goals in his last two Premier League matches, but it is unclear what the future holds for him.

Arsenal are in the market for midfield recruits, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad in preparation for a busy Champions League schedule next season.

The Gunners have already raided Manchester City of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko last summer, and German news outlet SportBild claim that they could attempt a similar swoop for Gundogan.

Indeed, the 32-year-old could be the ideal replacement for Granit Xhaka, who looks set to leave the Emirates for Bayer Leverkusen this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

While uncertainty surrounding Gundogan's new contract could present Arsenal with the perfect opportunity to take advantage of his status as a free agent.

Gundogan to Arsenal?

Gundogan is thought to be keen to extend his seven-year stay at Manchester City, but an agreement is yet to be struck regarding a new deal.

SportBild report that negotiations between City and Gundogan's entourage have stalled, with the Germany international keen to sign a longer term-deal than the one-year contract being offered.

While the publication also states that 'from June 20, Gundogan can negotiate with other English clubs', which was previously not possible due to Premier League regulations blocking negotiations for a 6-week period.

In turn, Pep Guardiola must act fast if he is to keep the midfielder, described as a 'genius' by The Guardian, with no shortage of clubs keen to secure his services.

Among the interested parties are Spanish giants Barcelona, who are 'ready to offer' Gundogan a longer term contract at the Camp Nou.

But should Arsenal land his signature, it may be viewed as a step backwards, with the experienced midfielder not getting any younger.

Indeed, most of Arteta's transfer plans have been focused around younger players, such as Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo, both of whom have been rumoured with a move to north London.