Sources: Barcelona 'pushing hard' to sign Ilkay Gundogan after Man City talks reveal
Barcelona are pushing to sign Man City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The 32-year-old's current contract at City expires this summer, and the La Liga giants are keen to sign the Germany international as a free agent.
City are not close to agreeing a new contract with Gundogan but haven't given up hope that they can convince him to stay put at the Etihad Stadium next season.
Barcelona are struggling financially and have turned to the free agent market to bolster their squad for next season.
Manager Xavi views Gundogan as a top-level midfield signing and, the source explains, is "pushing hard" for his club to agree a deal.
Gundogan has been a significant part of Pep Guardiola's plans this season, making 33 appearances across all competitions including every Champions League match so far.
Gundogan joined City back in 2016 following a £21million move from Borussia Dortmund, and has helped the Manchester side win four Premier League titles, four League Cups and one FA Cup.
He has scored 52 goals and assisted a further 37 in 286 total appearances for City during his seven seasons with the club.
The versatile midfielder was the first player signed by Guardiola when he was appointed manager back in 2016, and the Spaniard described him as an "incredible" and "grounded" player.
Gundogan also remains a prominent part of the German national team having made 66 caps for the country since his debut in 2011.