Manchester City’s Ilkay Gündogan has confirmed that Borussia Dortmund held talks with his representatives, but a return to the Bundesliga doesn’t appear to be an option for the German.
Speaking ahead of Germany’s game against Colombia on Tuesday, Gündogan confirmed contact with his former club: “There was contact with Borussia Dortmund,” said the 32-year-old. “Not with me personally, but between [Sebastian] Kehl and my advisor. Of course I have a strong connection with BVB. I wasn’t surprised the rumours started.
“But the probability wasn’t too high for me. It wasn’t a big issue for me to return to the Bundesliga. Basically, there is no decision yet. Conversations are running in the background.”
It was reported, via Bild, last week that Gündogan prefers other options than a return to Borussia Dortmund. Out of contract with Manchester City, Barcelona and Arsenal are the two clubs showing significant interest in the player.
Gündogan played an instrumental role in Manchester City’s treble winning campaign. The Germany international played 51 games across all competitions for Pep Guardiola this season, scoring 11 and creating seven.
Although his contract expires with Manchester City, Gündogan doesn’t appear to be in a rush to make a decision on his future. Remaining at the Premier League club also appears to be an option.
When it comes to Arsenal, they have shown interest in signing Declan Rice and Gündogan as they look to bolster their midfield. Only then will they allow Granit Xhaka to leave for Bayer Leverkusen, with the Bundesliga side expected to pay around €15m to sign the Switzerland international.
GGFN | Daniel Pinder
