Back to the Manchester City Newsfeed

Barcelona boss Xavi 'makes special request to get Man City's Ilkay Gundogan' on a free transfer in the summer, with the German out of contract at the Etihad at the end of the season... despite the Catalan giants having to slash their wage bill

Xavi has made a special request to get Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona this summer, according to a new report.

Gundogan, 32, has been an important part of the Citizens since 2016, helping them to four Premier League titles.

But the German's contract expires at the end of the season, and despite Pep Guardiola's admiration of the midfielder, it looks like he may exit the Etihad soon.

The Athletic report that Barcelona boss Xavi has made a "special request" to obtain the services of Gundogan in the summer - despite the club's financial woes.