Barcelona keeping tabs on Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan

Barcelona are closely tracking Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist adds that the German midfielder, whose contract runs out in 2023, is expected to leave Etihad this summer as there are no talks over a renewal.

Citizens appear to be ready to cash in on Gundogan this summer rather than letting him go for free at the end of next season.

As a result, Barca have a great chance to sign him for a more reasonable fee, but they face competition from Premier League giants Arsenal for his signing.

However, the odds are against the Gunners due to their potential absence from the Champions League next season – they are currently fifth in the Premier League, and their hopes are over if Tottenham Hotspur win against Norwich City.

Gundogan has been one of the most underrated midfielders in the Premier League, with his brilliance often being overshadowed by the likes of Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne.

The 31-year-old is an all-action midfielder, excelling at different roles, and his standout quality is the knack for scoring goals.

He has netted eight goals and six assists this term, but last season was truly exceptional as he found the nets 17 times in all competitions, which was pivotal in Man City’s Premier League triumph.

The Catalan giants are looking to strengthen their midfield, with Franck Kessie being the only prospective arrival so far ahead of next season.

Ruben Neves is on top of their wishlist, while Valencia’s Carles Soler and Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni are the other names considered.

However, Barca’s financial constraints are against them. Their strategy seems to be signing free agents and the players in the final year of their contracts, such as Andreas Christensen, Robert Lewandowski, Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta.

Gundogan would be a top-quality addition to Barca if they were to sign him in the summer.