Manchester City heavyweight has asked Barcelona for more time to decide his future

Ilkay Gundogan has become the centre of attraction ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

After leading Manchester City to a historic treble, the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has become a wanted prospect in the market. Barcelona have been on his tail for a long time, but it appears even Arsenal are keen on acquiring his services on a free transfer.

A recent report has suggested that Barcelona have improved their offer for Gundogan, in an attempt to convince the German to make the move to Camp Nou this summer.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Gundogan has asked Barcelona for more time before he can decide his future. This comes shortly after reports that claimed Gundogan will make a decision on his future at the end of this week.

More time likely means Gundogan will evaluate the option of prolonging his stay at Manchester City. Even though his contract at Etihad expires at the end of the month, Man City still harbour the hope of retaining his services beyond the summer.

As per the same report from MD, Manchester City have raised their salary proposal for Gundogan, hoping it would be enough to convince the midfielder to prolong his stay at the club. The player himself has stated his desire to continue leading the Man City team in the past and has a strong connection with Pep Guardiola.

But Barcelona cannot be ruled out in this race. The Catalans have offered the German a three-year contract which he desires. But the club cannot guarantee to register the player even if he reaches an agreement with the Blaugrana.

This is because Barcelona are not in a position to register too many new players until they reduce the salary mass. That means the club would have to get rid of their key players before they can compete with Man City in the race to sign Gundogan this summer.