“Still open” – Agent of Manchester City star provides truth behind ongoing transfer speculation

The agent and uncle of Manchester City midfielder and current club captain Ilkay Gundogan has offered clarity on the player’s future.

The Germany international is now into the final few weeks of his current Etihad Stadium contract, and with no sign of an imminent extension to the deal being reported, the assumption among supporters is that he will be leaving the club this summer.

A number of clubs have shown an interest in the player, with La Liga giants FC Barcelona being the most likely destination for Gundogan, should he opt to leave Manchester City in the coming weeks.

However, talk of a total agreement with those from the Camp Nou – emerging from reports in Spain – are understood to be premature, with Ilkay Gundogan’s agent and uncle now providing clarity on the situation.

Ilhan Gundogan has told The Guardian, “There’s definitely no agreement yet with any club.

“The focus of Ilkay in recent weeks was only on Manchester City and the birth of his son. Now he is in the final and crucial phase of the season and is completely focused on that.

“Where Ilkay plays next season is still open.”

The report also states that the ongoing situation could yet end with him extending his stay at Manchester City beyond the conclusion of the ongoing campaign. It is stated that the 32 year-old remains happy in Manchester and enjoys playing for Pep Guardiola, as well as being content with how much he has played this season.

From the side of the player, The Guardian states that an important consideration will be the length of his next deal with both him and his family looking for stability. Gundogan’s next contract is described as being ‘crucial’ as it is likely to decide where he ends his career.

Ilkay Gundogan will be looking to win his fifth Premier League title with Manchester City this season, having been a staple in Pep Guardiola’s squad and playing style since arriving in the north-west of England in the summer of 2016.

Gundogan was one of Pep Guardiola’s first signings upon arriving at the club, and the Catalan coach illustrated his commitment to signing the player when securing his services despite the German suffering from a long-term injury at the time.

While both parties seek clarity over where Gundogan will play his football next season, Manchester City will continue to brace themselves for an exit as they line-up possible replacements in the form of the likes of Jude Bellingham and Alexis Mac Allister.