Manchester City close in on midfield maestro as Pep Guardiola’s influence felt

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Manchester City have reportedly opened talks with Borussia Dortmund over the transfer of Ilkay Gundogan this summer.

The German international has long been linked with an exit from the Bundesliga outfit at the end of the season as he continues to move closer to the end of his current contract.

According to The Times, City have informed Dortmund that they are prepared to pay €18million with a further €5m depending on performances.

It is claimed that the German side have yet to respond to the offer, but they are expected to reply by insisting that they expect a much more significant fee for the midfielder in order to be persuaded to part company with him.

Head coach Thomas Tuchel remains hopeful that Gundogan can be convinced to stay Signal Iduna Park, but the 25-year-old could be persuaded to join Pep Guardiola’s revolution at the Etihad instead.

The Spanish tactician will be looking to stamp his mark on the squad this summer, as he will undoubtedly need his own players that fit his mould to carry out his tactics and play the style of football that has become a hallmark of his managerial career.

Gundogan would offer him such an impact given his ability in midfield, and so he would likely form a crucial part of the incoming City boss’s plans.

Whether or not Dortmund will allow it to happen remains to be seen, as the club could be looking at a disastrous summer transfer market with the likes of Mats Hummels also being linked with an exit.

In turn, City will likely have to test their resolve further with an improved bid although given their financial resources, that shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

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