Barcelona star Ilkay Gundogan ‘wants immediate return to Manchester City’ and boss Pep Guardiola ‘is open to transfer’

BARCELONA star Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly pushing for a sensational transfer return to Manchester City.

The German midfielder, 33, departed the Etihad on a free transfer for Spain last summer after winning the Treble.

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Ilkay Gundogan is pushing for a return to Man City after being frozen out at Barcelona[/caption]

Reuters

But Gundogan’s time at the Nou Camp has not been a successful one.

He managed just five goals in 51 outings — his lowest tally in four years.

And after winning the lot at City, Gundogan finished the season without a single piece of silverware.

Sport claims he has now handed in a transfer request after being left out of Barcelona’s match-day squad for their opening 2-1 win over Valencia.

The Catalans have made no secret of their need to raise funds to complete a move for RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo — who also plays in Gundogan’s position.

And the five-time Premier League winner is now said to have set his sights on a stunning City return.

Pep Guardiola is in the market for reinforcements after losing Oscar Bobb to a long-term injury.

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The tactician is also down a forward with an eye for goal following Julian Alvarez’s transfer to Atletico Madrid.

And Gundogan would be able to provide a decent threat after netting an impressive 60 goals from midfield in seven years at the Etihad.

Indeed, Guardiola is reportedly open to bringing his former disciple back to Manchester under the right terms.

But despite leaving Gundogan out against Valencia, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick believes the veteran will end up staying in Spain.

He said: “I spoke with Gundogan to know how he feels ahead of the season.

“I know him very well. I appreciate the player and the person he is. 

“We spoke about everything but it will stay between us. I have a feel he will stay.”