Manchester City find themselves at a crossroads this summer – a period of renewal. With star arrivals like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait‑Nouri already on the books, Pep Guardiola is keen to trim the squad.
From Captain to Cash-Out: City May Sell Gundogan This Summer
That has sparked speculation that veteran midfielder Ilkay Gundogan could be shown the door, even after returning to the Etihad in 2024.
Once a central figure and captain, Gündoğan, now 34, has gradually seen his role diminish. Critics, including former scout Mick Brown, believe “they’ve not been totally convinced he’s still got the legs to play regularly at this level”.
Meanwhile, incoming Reijnders has already stepped into the No. 8 role and is learning from Gundogan in training.
Guardiola is understood to want a leaner, more dynamic squad. Both Gündoğan and Jack Grealish face an uncertain future as City look to reduce their wage bill.
Clubs across Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the MLS have shown interest, with Galatasaray standing out among them.
Despite outside interest, reports suggest he is intent on staying through his contract, which now runs until June 2026, having triggered a 12‑month extension.
Gundogan has hinted at a future coaching role at City alongside Guardiola, but he’s far from ready to hang up his boots.
The Turkish giants are ready to swoop in, offering a lucrative deal that matches his current salary and appealing to his heritage, making the move emotionally resonant.
Their scouting and funding strength, already seen in the acquisition of Leroy Sané, further reinforces this narrative.
