- Man City is reportedly preparing to offer a new contract to Ilkay Gundogan to keep him away from Arsenal.
- Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, has shown significant interest in Gundogan, prompting City to action.
- Despite the standoff, there is optimism that an agreement can be reached that will see Gundogan extend his stay at Man City.
In a move to keep Ilkay Gundogan out of Arsenal’s grasp, Man City is ready to meet his demands for a new contract.
The Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, is keen to reunite with the Etihad captain whom he worked with when serving as Pep Guardiola’s assistant until 2019.
Gundogan’s contract with Man City expires at the end of the season and, so far, initial discussions failed to reach an agreement.
Barcelona showed willingness to offer him a two-year deal, leading Gundogan to hope for a similar proposal from Man City.
The standoff drew Arsenal’s attention, who closely trailed the reigning champions in the title race, opening the possibility of a free transfer of Gundogan to the Emirates this summer.
However, there are now signs of City optimism that a compromise can be found, which would see him continue his seven-year journey at the Etihad.
The new deal proposed by City is said to be structured differently from the one offered at Nou Camp but aligns more closely with Gundogan’s expectations.
If he stays, it would indeed be a timely lift for Guardiola, who has frequently stated his desire for the German – his first signing at City back in 2016 – to remain at the club.
Despite not playing against Chelsea, Gundogan, who scored twice in each of his last two league starts against Leeds and Everton, lifted the Premier League trophy at the weekend.
Gundogan will now hope that City can fend off Arsenal and other potential suitors as they prepare for their FA Cup final next week against West Ham.
