Borussia Dortmund looking to hijack Barcelona’s move for Man City heavyweight

Ilkay Gundogan is one of Barcelona’s most discussed transfer targets for the summer transfer window, perhaps only behind Lionel Messi. The Manchester City midfielder has been spectacular for Pep Guardiola’s side this season and would be a perfect stylistic fit in the Catalans’ system.

His move to Barcelona, however, is no longer as simple as it appeared. Despite earlier reports considering his transfer close to completion, there are now a host of options on the German midfielder’s table. Xavi’s side, meanwhile, are not doing themselves any favours by delaying the process.

According to reports from SPORT BILD, Gundogan wishes to play for Barcelona. However, a move to the club looks complicated now given the Catalans’ financial fair play issues.

In such a scenario, Borussia Dortmund appear to be one of the leading candidates to snap up the veteran’s services. The Germans are looking for a replacement for Jude Bellingham, who is set to join Real Madrid and see the Manchester City star to be the optimal choice.

Dortmund are not the only team competing with Barcelona for the 32-year-old. Reports earlier today reveal that Saudi Arabia and Arsenal have joined the hunt for his signature alongside Manchester City who hope for a renewal.

Given that Gundogan deeply wishes to don the Blaugrana colours, Barcelona are still in pole position. However, Joan Laporta must act fast for the club seriously risk falling down the pecking order if any further delay ensues.

It will be vital for the Azulgranas to pioneer a couple of player sales before they can put an official offer on the table for Gundogan. Ansu Fati is one of the three players the club are currently trying to sell actively, for the situation is now urgent.

Gundogan made 31 appearances for Manchester City in the recently concluded edition of the Premier League, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in the process.

Having secured the league title, Pep Guardiola’s side hope to win their first UCL trophy later this month and the Barcelona target, needless to say, will be critical on the night against Inter Milan.