An FC Barcelona star has now reportedly reached out to Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola over a shock potential transfer before the window closes.
On 30 August, the transfer window in Europe's top five leagues will come to a close, bringing an end to yet another opportunity for clubs to bolster their squads for the 2024/25 season.
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So far, several high-profile transfers have been confirmed, with stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Dani Olmo, and Julian Alvarez sealing big moves.
Moreover, more eye-catching deals could still happen, and it is now reported that Barca star Ilkay Gundogan has now asked to leave the Spanish giants after a recent disappointment at the club.
According to Catalunya Radio's La TdT, the Germany international has reached out to his former manager Guardiola in the hopes of securing a sensational return to the Manchester club.
It said that this comes after the 33-year-old was snubbed for Barca's LALIGA opener against Valencia on Saturday under new manager Hansi Flick, who got off to a winning start after his team claimed a 2-1 victory.
Gundogan is believed to have a close relationship with his former coach in the Premier League, and the player is now said to be exploring his options.
Flick was asked about Gundogan's absence in the Bluagrana's opening match of the league season, and the German tactician seemed optimistic about keeping his fellow countryman in Catalonia.
"I spoke with him to know how he feels ahead of the season. I know him very well," he told reporters, according to Barca Blaugranes.
"I appreciate the player and the person he is. We spoke about everything, but it will stay between us, it's not for you to know. I have the feeling he will stay."
The playmaker featured prominently for Barcelona last term under Xavi Hernandez, making 51 appearances in his debut season at the club and contributing with five goals and 14 assists.
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Some reports in Spain also suggest, though, that Barca were considering offloading Gundogan before the window closes due to their financial situation, with his contract due to expire at the end of the current campaign.