Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is eager to keep midfielder Ilkay Gundogan at the Etihad, even as he acknowledged Barcelona’s interest in the Germany international.
Gundogan’s current deal with Manchester City will expire on June 30. The 32-year-old will become a free agent if no extension is agreed upon.
The Germany international has been linked with a move to Barcelona, as the Blaugrana are eager to sign a top midfielder to replace Sergio Busquets this summer.
Guardiola has now insisted that Manchester City want Gundogan to remain at the club despite Barcelona’s interest.
“I’m aware of Barcelona’s interest in signing Gündo, but we are also very interested in keeping him at the club. I hope he stays with us.
“If Barca succeed in signing him, they will get a great, fantastic player,” Guardiola was quoted as saying by Fabrizio Romano.
Gundogan joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2016 for €27 million.
He has scored 60 goals and registered 40 assists in 304 games with Guardiola’s side.
Gundogan helped Man City win the treble—the FA Cup, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League—last season.