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Ilkay Gundogan signs initial two-year deal with Xavi’s side on free transfer from Man City.
Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has decided to leave the Etihad and go for Xavi’s La Liga champions Barcelona.
Gundogan, who won three trophies, is expected to leave City when his contract expires, and Barcelona appear to be the favourites to sign him.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the German international has reached an agreement with the Catalan giants for a two-year contract with an additional year’s option. Barcelona is convinced that despite their continuous financial difficulties, the team will be able to sign Gundogan.
Gundogan arrives after captaining Manchester City to the Treble last season. The veteran will offer experience and depth to Xavi’s midfield which will be without Sergio Busquets next year following his decision to leave as a free agent.
Manchester City will be hurt by the midfielder’s exit. Gundogan would be a “extraordinary signing” for his previous club, but Guardiola had made it clear that he wanted him to stay. City has already reached an agreement with Chelsea to acquire Mateo Kovacic as part of their summer midfield expansion plan.
The first time Gundogan plays will be seen by Barcelona supporters during the preseason. In July, the Catalans will go to the US for friendlies against Juventus, Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Juventus.