Ilkay Gundogan signs, £53m exit, second transfer - Pep Guardiola dream Man City midfield

Manchester City are interested in a shock move to re-sign midfielder Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona. The 33-year-old left City to join the La Liga side last summer after his contract expired at the Etihad Stadium.

During his first season in Catalonia, Gundogan made 51 appearances, scoring five times and adding 14 assists in all competitions. He was a regular under Xavi but didn't feature in Hansi Flick's first game as Barcelona boss against Valencia on Saturday. Gundogan wasn't even named in the squad for the trip to the Mestalla.

And now, according to The Athletic, Gundogan is exploring his options at Barcelona and could leave before the end of the window, with interest from clubs in the Premier League, Turkey, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Gundogan is under contract until 2026 after he hit the appearance requirements last season to extend his two-year deal by a further 12 months. Barcelona are keen to move on high earners such as Gundogan, Ferran Torres and Raphinha.

It's also reported that Pep Guardiola has given the green light to a return for Gundogan, who enjoyed a memorable seven years at City before his departure was confirmed. He played 304 matches for City, scoring 60 goals and adding 38 assists, winning 12 major trophies including the Premier League five times and the Champions League once. In his final season, Gundogan was an integral part of the treble-winning side.

READ MORE: Sensational return, Pep Guardiola call, Man City dilemma - Ilkay Gundogan transfer decided

READ MORE: Stunning Ilkay Gundogan deal could unlock transfer plan - and Man City have perfect Barca leverage

If Gundogan does move back to City, it will give them more depth in midfield. In an attempt to replace Gundogan, City signed Matheus