According to The Guardian, Arsenal are reportedly interested in securing the services of Ilkay Gündogan in an effort to bolster their midfield for a potential title challenge in the upcoming season. The Manchester City midfielder’s contract expires this summer, and the champions are expected to extend an offer to him.
However, the Gunners have now entered the race for Gündogan’s signature, with the allure of working alongside manager Mikel Arteta potentially appealing to the 32-year-old veteran.
🚨 Arsenal trying to sign Man City captain Ilkay Gundogan. Arteta wants 32yo if Xhaka goes. Fresh attempts will be made to keep him at #MCFC + other options. #AFC additionally pushing hard for Rice & Mount + renewed efforts to secure Nwaneri @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/HHJY2QRmsF
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 22, 2023
Gundogan’s Impressive Campaign With Manchester City This Season
Gundogan has been in exceptional form for the Sky Blues this season, consistently delivering outstanding performances in midfield. The talented German has showcased his goal-scoring prowess by finding the back of the net on nine occasions and providing seven assists in 47 appearances across various competitions.
The 32-year-old has been a key contributor in the attacking half for the Manchester giants, maintaining an average of 1.8 shots, 1.2 key passes, and 0.5 dribbles per game in the Premier League.
Moreover, his pass completion rate of 87.9% in the top flight demonstrates his precision and efficiency in distributing the ball in the final third (stats via whoscored).
Can Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Lure Him To The Emirates Stadium?
The duo had previously collaborated during Mikel Arteta’s time as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Man City, and the Arsenal manager has a track record of convincing former colleagues to join him at the Emirates. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko are prime examples, having made the switch from City last summer and leaving a significant impact, despite the North London club falling short in the title race.
However, Gündogan’s importance at the Etihad surpasses that of Jesus and Zinchenko. The German midfielder has been exceptional this season, notching nine goals and consistently delivering influential performances while leading the team. Acquiring Gündogan’s services would be a major triumph for the Gunners, even considering his age.
The key factor that may sway the decision is the length of the contract offered. Guardiola desires to retain Gündogan, but the player is likely to seek a deal of two guaranteed years if he is to extend his stay with the Sky Blues, where he has been since 2016.
Once Granit Xhaka departs the club after a seven-year spell, Arteta’s midfield will have an opening for an experienced presence. Arsenal currently lead the way in the pursuit of West Ham’s Declan Rice, although they could face competition from Manchester United in what is expected to be an expensive transfer. On the flip side, the prospect of acquiring Gundogan as a free transfer adds to the allure of the Gunners. We can only anticipate until the summer transfer window commences to witness the unfolding of Gundogan’s near future.
