Barcelona 'considering January move for Ilkay Gundogan'

The 32-year-old has again been a vital player for the Citizens during the 2022-23 campaign, making 20 appearances in all competitions, contributing two goals and two assists in the process.

Gundogan has made 12 Premier League appearances this term, while he also featured in all six of his side's matches in the group stage of the Champions League.

The midfielder's contract in Manchester is due to expire next June, though, and there has been widespread speculation surrounding his future over the last few months.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are keeping a close eye on his situation with the Citizens, and the Catalan outfit could make a move during the January transfer window.

The report claims that the La Liga club's head coach Xavi has a 'serious interest' in bringing the Germany international to Camp Nou.

As it stands, Barcelona would be free to hold contract talks with Gundogan at the start of 2023, although they would have to agree a transfer fee with Man City in order to sign him in January.

Gundogan made the move to the Citizens from Borussia Dortmund in July 2016, and he has represented the Premier League side on 273 occasions in all competitions, contributing 51 goals and 35 assists in the process.

The midfielder has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and four EFL Cup crowns during a highly-successful period in Manchester.

Gundogan recently suggested that his future at Man City could depend on what happens with Pep Guardiola, and the Spaniard has now signed a new contract to continue as the club's head coach.

"I'm quite calm, confident with my situation and happy where I am. I don't feel there is a decision to take right now. It's quite normal to have rumours when you're in this situation," Gundogan recently told reporters.

"Also, the manager's contract is expiring in the summer, too, so I don't really know what's going to happen with him - no-one really knows.

"If you look back to my career then you will see everywhere I was, it was because of the manager that was there."

Gundogan, who has also been linked with Galatasaray, is currently representing Germany at the 2022 World Cup, starting both of their Group E fixtures against Japan and Spain, finding the back of the net from the penalty spot against the former on November 23.

Barcelona will be in the market for at least one new central midfielder next year if Sergio Busquets departs, with the Spain international's contract due to expire at the end of June.