İlkay Gundogan is on the verge of completing a sensational move to Galatasaray, with the deal expected to be finalized today. The veteran midfielder has agreed a contract running until June 2027, marking a return closer to his roots after an illustrious career in European football.
The Turkish champions have long admired the German international. Gundogan only returned to the Etihad last summer after a spell at Barcelona, but with Pep Guardiola reshaping his midfield, the 34-year-old seem not to fit in his plans going forward.
Also, with the arrival of Tijjani Reijnders and the return to fitness of Rodri, Gundogan has fallen out of the picture and has not featured for City this season. The 34-year-old was born in Germany but has Turkish family and wanted to play in the country before he retires.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano via his X handle, Gundogan’s move to Galatasaray is a done deal, with a contract until June 2027 set to be signed later today. Manchester City have agreed to let the midfielder leave on a free transfer. The post reads:
“Ilkay Gündogan to Galatasaray, here we go! Deal until June 2027 set to be signed later today.
Man City will let Gündogan leave for free as the agreement includes salary saved.
Gündo, in Istanbul today.”
Man City allowed Gundogan to leave on a free transfer, as the agreement primarily benefits them through saved salary commitments. The German international, who played a crucial role in City’s recent domestic and European triumphs, will now embark on a new chapter in Istanbul.
The 34-year-old is set to be reunited with Sane, with whom he won two league titles alongside at City among other trophies. Gundogan has been a key figure for Manchester City, making over 350 appearances in his two stints with the side, but competition for places has intensified.
Guardiola now has Tijjani Reijnders, Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Nico Gonzalez leading the midfield, leaving Gundogan lower down the pecking order. At 34, a switch to Galatasaray could offer him regular football while keeping him playing in the Champions League.
While the Turkish transfer window is open for another week, Galatasaray must register any new signing before midnight on Tuesday in order to play them in the Champions League this season.
The UEFA deadline will push Galatasaray to register Gundogan to use him in this season’s competition which will include a visit to the Etihad Stadium to face City in the final game of the League Phase.
