Manchester City have been active on both fronts of the transfer market this summer, bringing in several new faces while also clearing space in their squad. With just days remaining before the window closes, another senior player appears set to leave the Etihad Stadium.
After a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, City are aiming to reassert their dominance, particularly on the domestic front. The Premier League champions have bolstered their squad with the additions of Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and James Trafford. A final signing could also be on the cards, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma reportedly edging closer to a move from PSG.
City have also offloaded several key figures. Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, James McAtee and Kyle Walker have all departed. According to journalist Nicolo Schira, another major name could soon follow: Ilkay Gundogan.
Gundogan not in Guardiola’s plans
The 34-year-old returned to Manchester City last season following a brief spell at Barcelona and featured heavily under Pep Guardiola, making 54 appearances across all competitions. However, the German midfielder no longer appears to be part of the club’s long-term plans, with Guardiola reportedly applying further pressure to streamline his squad ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Galatasaray are understood to be interested in signing Gundogan. The Turkish giants have already agreed a deal to bring in Manuel Akanji from City and remain in negotiations for goalkeeper Ederson. The addition of Gundogan would mark a third significant arrival from the Etihad.
A sentimental move to Galatasaray?
A move to Turkey could make sense on a personal level for Gundogan, whose parents are of Turkish origin. Despite his age, the midfielder is still viewed as a reliable and experienced figure, and Galatasaray would consider the €5m-rated player a valuable asset in midfield.
If the transfer materialises, Gundogan could play a key role in Galatasaray’s ambitions this season, while City continue to reshape their squad under Guardiola’s direction.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
