Home Featured Treble-winner Ilkay Gundogan joined Barca

Treble-winner Ilkay Gundogan joined Barca

Ilkay Gundogan has joined La Liga champions Barcelona as free transfer from Manchester City as the treble winner signed a two-year contract until 2025 with an option to extend for another year.

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According to multiple sources, including the ‘Here we go’ from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, it’s only matter of time to see the Catalan side officially announces this blockbuster.

Confirmed 2023/24 Kits

Gundogan joined Barca

The German international is out of contract at the Etihad Stadium at the end of June, he had captained former boss Pep Guardiola to a historic treble. Gundogan attracted strong interest from numerous clubs, including Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

Manager Xavi Hernandez personally held talks with Gundogan and expressed that he is the one that the club needs the most. Two sides are believed to have sealed a verbal agreement before the 2022/23 season ended.

The veteran will offer experience and depth to Xavi’s midfield which will be without Sergio Busquets next year following his decision to leave as a free agent at the end of last season, after clinching the league title.

Per reports, the 32-year-old keymaker has completed his medical with the club.

He is reportedly to have reduced his salary from his City days and pocket €9M per annually. Despite having some financial issues, Xavi’s side is confident that they can have him registered before the new season starts. His contract with Barca includes the release clause worth €500m.

The dawn of new era

Sergio Busquet and Jordi Alba departed at the end of last season marked the finish of an era for the Blaugranas.

After clinching the league title, president Joan Laporta started the rebuild and Gundogan’s arrival will be the key to form a fresh midfield with the likes of Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and the treble winner.