Barcelona have reportedly identified Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan as their leading midfield target this summer.
The 32-year-old has again been an important player for the Citizens during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 35 occasions in all competitions, contributing three goals and four assists in the process.
However, there is currently widespread uncertainty surrounding his future at the Etihad Stadium, with his contract due to expire at the end of June.
Barcelona have been heavily linked with the German over the last few months, and according to Sport, the La Liga leaders are determined to sign him on a free transfer this summer.
The report claims that Barcelona boss Xavi is keen to strengthen his midfield for the 2023-24 campaign amid the uncertainty surrounding Sergio Busquets's future at Camp Nou.
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Busquets's contract is due to expire at the end of June, and the former Spain captain is believed to be leaning towards leaving Barcelona on a free transfer to move to the MLS.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently said that the club will soon officially offer the midfielder a new deal.
"Busquets is important and I think Xavi wants him to stay for another year. We have not yet made an offer, but we will make one shortly so that he can continue for one more year. He has to value many aspects: family, country, other offers," Laporta told reporters.
There is also again uncertainty surrounding the future of Frenkie de Jong, with Manchester United said to be planning to reignite their interest in the Netherlands international this summer.
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Laporta said last week that the club are not looking to sign a new midfielder this summer and would instead look to boost their defence and attack.
"We must sign a right-back, while a CB will depend on the market possibilities. A striker surely yes, but it is likely that someone will have to leave. We have a great midfield and I don't see the need to sign someone there," Laporta told reporters.
However, behind the scenes, Barcelona are said to be looking at low-cost options in midfield, with Gundogan a realistic signing if he becomes a free agent this summer.
The German's uncle, who also acts as his agent, is said to have travelled to Spain a few weeks ago to discuss a potential move to the Catalan giants at the end of the season.
Gundogan has been with Man City since 2016, representing the club on 288 occasions in all competitions, contributing 52 goals and 37 assists in the process.
Matt Law
