As a twist to the news making rounds, it was reported that Ilkay Gundogan has requested for a transfer out of Barcelona. The player only joined the club from Manchester City last summer.
This 33-year-old midfielder has been a good signing for the team, having made 51 league appearances and scoring 5 goals as well as assisting 14 more.
However, the Spanish side sees itself technically bankrupt and is thinking of letting go of Gundogan for a better bid.
Transfer Request and Potential Destinations
As highlighted by Spanish Newpaper Sport, Gundogan has grown impatient and submitted a transfer request.
This news comes after the club had recently explained that he was excluded from the matchday squad during their 2-1 win over Valencia because he had a physical problem.
After Barcelona’s Champions league exit to Paris Saint-Germain last season, Ilkay Gundogan emerged as a vocal critic of his teammates.
This follows his public disapproval after a La Liga defeat to Real Madrid back in October. On that occasion as reported by Sportsbuddy, Gundogan expressed frustration with players appearing unbothered by the loss.
The German international whose contract with the Spanish giants expires next year has apparently wanted to continue playing for the Spanish side, but because of the stations Barcelona is faced with he may have to go.
Interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey
Some of the countries showing interest are Saudi Arabia and Turkey, with Fenerbahce now managed by Jose Mourinho showing high interest in acquiring Gundogan.
This interest arises at a time when Fenerbahce have been active in the transfer window market which included the signing of players such as Caglar Soyuncu, Cenk Tosun, Younes Belaili and securing of Allan Saint-Maximin on loan.
In actuality, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has refuted the speculations that Gundogan will be leaving Barcelona in the near future and has declared that he will spend the season playing for Barcelona only but the transfer window is still open.
