Man City must avoid Ilkay Gundogan gamble despite Jude Bellingham interest

Since his arrival at Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, Ilkay Gundogan has proved to be a reliable leader who can chip in with important goals when he is needed the most. And yet, the German midfielder, who has made more than 250 appearances for the Blues, looks set to depart at the end of the season without any real push for him to stay.

Gundogan, along with third-choice goalkeeper Scott Carson, is out of contract at the end of this campaign. And with just eight months left on his current deal, it doesn't appear that the 31-year-old will be offered a new one by the reigning champions.

He is a fan-favourite at the Etihad, his teammates and coaches love him, and while it seems that he will not be wearing a blue shirt next year, he has the chance to go out with a bang. The German international signed a new four-year contract in 2019 until 2023 following lengthy negotiations.

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Both City and manager Pep Guardiola viewed the midfielder as a key part of the club's plans as he entered the peak years of his career. He has, undoubtedly, proved them right.

After effectively captaining the team for the majority of last season in the absence of Fernandinho, he was named as City's new club captain for this campaign by his teammates. At the time, he spoke about how proud he was, and he has demonstrated that every single time he has stepped across the white line, which is why some fans find it odd that his deal hasn't been extended.

According to Italian outlet CMW, Serie A giants Juventus are keen on signing Gundogan in January, with manager Max Allegri looking for a spark after their dismal start to the campaign. It is reported that they