Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly seeking to leave Barcelona after just one season. The midfielder, who joined Barcelona from Manchester City last June on a two-year deal, is now in the final year of his contract.
Spanish newspaper *Sport* indicates that Gundogan has communicated his intention to depart from Barcelona. He was absent from Barcelona’s first La Liga match, which they won 2-1 against Valencia, due to what manager Hansi Flick described as an injury rather than any concerns about his future. Flick mentioned, “I believe he will stay. He wasn’t available due to pain. I spoke to Ilkay, but that’s a private matter.”
*Sport* also notes Gundogan’s dissatisfaction with the club and his wish for help in finding a new team. Potential suitors include clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Fenerbahçe’s new manager, José Mourinho, is particularly keen on signing him. Since his appointment in June, Mourinho has been active in the transfer market, adding players such as Caglar Soyuncu, Cenk Tosun, and Youssef En-Nesyri, and securing Allan Saint-Maximin on loan from Al-Ahli. Mourinho is reportedly very motivated to bring Gundogan to Fenerbahçe.