Manchester City could be set for a shock late departure before the transfer deadline, with club legend Ilkay Gundogan attracting strong interest from clubs around the world.
The 34-year-old midfielder had his contract automatically extended earlier this summer, keeping him at the Etihad for the 2025–26 campaign. Gundogan himself insisted he was happy to stay under Pep Guardiola, but speculation about his future refuses to die down.
Galatasaray Links Refuse to Fade
Gundogan was heavily linked with a return to Turkey last month, with reports claiming Galatasaray had even reached a contractual agreement with the midfielder. Born in Germany to Turkish parents and raised in a Galatasaray-supporting household, Gundogan has never hidden his admiration for the Istanbul giants.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk recently suggested that the deal was unlikely this summer, but with the transfer window still open until September 1, a late twist cannot be ruled out.
Sky Germany: Gundogan Could Still Leave
According to Sky Deutschland’s Florian Plettenberg, Gundogan’s future remains “one to watch” in the final days of the window. The journalist reports that the midfielder has received “numerous top-level enquiries” and could decide to leave Manchester before the deadline.
Losing Gundogan would be a major blow for Guardiola, who still views the veteran as one of his most trusted players.
A Legendary Spell at the Etihad
Gundogan has enjoyed a glittering career across two stints at City. Since first joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2016, he has made 358 appearances, won 14 trophies, and became a central figure in their rise to European dominance.
The midfielder famously captained City to their historic 2022–23 treble, lifting the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history. After a brief spell at Barcelona in 2023–24, Gundogan returned to Manchester last season, making 50 appearances across all competitions.
He also impressed at the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year, scoring two goals in four matches.
Other Stars Linked With Moves
Gundogan is not the only senior City player attracting interest. Goalkeeper Ederson, defender Manuel Akanji, and centre-back Nathan Aké have also been linked with exits.
Galatasaray are reportedly monitoring both Ederson and Akanji, while Everton are said to be weighing up a move for Aké as they look to reinforce their backline before the window closes.
For Guardiola, the dilemma is clear: does he hold on to Gundogan for another campaign, or allow a loyal servant the chance to end his career on his own terms? With top clubs circling and the deadline fast approaching, the coming days could be decisive for both Gundogan and Manchester City’s squad planning.
