Man City could sign ‘special’ Ilkay Gundogan replacement after reveal via Sky – pundit
Kevin Campbell has suggested Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham could replace Ilkay Gundogan at Man City next summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Arsenal and Everton striker claimed Pep Guardiola’s side will “have to guarantee” Bellingham, 19, game time in order to sign him.
Gundogan has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Etihad and could leave on a free transfer next July.
The centre-midfielder lined up against Jude Bellingham on Tuesday night, as Man City shared a goalless draw with Borussia Dortmund.
As quoted by Sky Sports (25 October), Guardiola described Bellingham as “the whole package” and “something special.”
A host of Europe’s top clubs, including Man City, Liverpool and Real Madrid, are expected to challenge for the teenager’s signature next summer.
Bellingham’s contract in Germany runs until the end of June 2025.
When asked by Football Insider to assess City’s chances of signing the England international, Campbell said: “You have to guarantee Bellingham game time to get him.
“City may need to get one out. Guardiola is going to freshen up again next summer.
“It would be fair enough of City to let Gundogan leave at the end of the season. It will free up a chunk of wages for them. They could go and buy somebody.
“Bellingham could be an option. Imagine Gundogan leaving and Bellingham replacing him. That is the way City do it. We know how they operate.”
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