Galatasaray to launch Ilkay Gundogan bid?! Turkish club aim to continue spending spree with move for veteran Man City midfielder

The Turkish Super Lig champions are looking to build on an extremely successful season by adding extra quality to their ranks, and reports suggest that an ambitious move for Gundogan could be on the cards. According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, the Manchester City midfielder, currently in his second spell at the club, is open to a move to Turkiye amid speculation that he could slip down the pecking order at the Etihad.

Sabuncuoğlu also reported that City have received a bid from a Saudi Pro League side, but Gundogan's priority appears to be remaining in Europe. The 34-year-old faces tough competition in midfield following the arrival of highly-rated younger players like Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki at the Etihad. In this context, a move away could make sense for Gundogan.

Gündoğan's parents originated from Turkey and the City star was eligible to play for the Turkish national team, but ultimately chose to represent Germany (he has scored 19 goals in 82 appearances for his country). That family connection is likely to boost his interest in joining the Turkish Super Lig.

With Pep Guardiola recently vowing to leave Manchester City if his huge squad isn't trimmed during the summer, there's an extra incentive for his trusted central midfielder to depart in the coming weeks. It'll take time for Galatasary's move to come together, but it seems as though all parties could be willing to make it work.