“I’m very happy where I am” – Ilkay Gündogan dismisses Barcelona exit rumors
One of Barcelona’s main goals in this summer transfer window is to raise funds in the form of player sales, which will not only help their financial issues but also help clear salary cap space to register all of their contracts and new signings.
There continues to be speculation that at least one big name will be sold in this window, and Ilkay Gündogan became the latest big name to be linked with a sale last week when it was reported that the Catalans were listening to offers for the midfielder, with Turkish giants Galatasary and Fenerbahçe especially interested in the veteran.
But the player has quickly moved to shut down any rumors of his departure. Gündogan was in Turkey on Thursday during his day off for family and commercial reasons, and was asked by Turkish press about the many rumors linking him with a move to one of the country’s biggest clubs this summer.
His answer was clear and definitive:
“Maybe someday I’ll play in Turkey, but not this summer. I love Turkey very much, but I’m very happy where I am now. But you never know what will happen in the future”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
Gündogan’s agent and uncle, Ilhan, was also asked by the press about his client’s future, and repeated the same message sent by Ilkay about his status.
“It is true that some clubs have shown interest in signing him, but Ilkay’s stance is clear: he will stay at Barcelona. He is excited to begin the new season and to help Barça achieve their objectives.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
The German was one of Barça’s best players last season and showed no signs of slowing down playing for his country in Euro 2024, and Gündogan will certainly play an important role for Hansi Flick due to his versatility and quality.