Mikel Arteta has been already been handed a major blow ahead of the upcoming transfer window in the race to sign Ilkay Gundogan. Arsenal have been heavily linked with a move for the Manchester City midfielder this month, though a deal could fall apart by next week.
The 31-year-old has featured 42 times for Pep Guardiola side this season, directly contributing towards 14 goals. His impressive displays have steered City towards a fourth Premier League title in five years, attracting a host of interest from Europe's leading sides this summer.
Gundogan, who sees his current deal at the Etihad expire in just over twelve months, has been at the centre of City's overwhelming dominance in recent years, playing an imperious role; whether it be wearing the arm band, scoring important goals or weathering a storm in midfield. And, Arsenal are believed to be among the aforementioned sides who are interested in signing the German, according to Fabrizio Romano.
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However, while the Gunners are said to have locked horns with Barcelona for his signature, Romano adds that talks are ongoing between Gundogan's agents and City officials that concern his future, though not about a new contract. Reports add that the German, who is valued at around £33million by CIES Football Observatory, is 'tempted by other opportunities' with clubs - like the north London outfit - waiting for a green light.
However, there is reportedly one major condition that could sway Gundogan's decision, should he leave City. Romano claims that a move to the Emirates Stadium is dependent on Champions League qualification, relying on Tottenham to lose on the final day.
While a move is seemingly on the cards for the midfielder, Guardiola has expressed his desire to retain Gundogan's services. Speaking on the midfielder's future at City, the Spanish boss said in his pre-match press conference: "I want him next season here, there’s no intention for him not to be here. Now he’s married he might want a new experience.
"All the great Twitter accounts say he’s going to leave but I didn’t know it. That’s the situation right now."
