The Saudi Pro League has reportedly registered an interest in signing a shock Barcelona star amid the Spanish club's financial woes.
The LALIGA giants are claimed to have prioritised the signing of two stars who were influential in Spain's triumph at the 2024 UEFA European Championship, namely Nico Williams and Dani Olmo.
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However, it is believed the Blaugrana would have to fork out more than €100 million (around R1.9 billion) to land the duo's signatures.
As such, the club is said to be looking to offload players in an effort to comply with the Spanish top flight's financial rules.
According to SPORT, Barca would be happy to offload defender Ronald Araujo, midfielder Frenkie de Jong and winger, Ansu Fati but the trio are currently carrying injuries.
As a result, the outlet suggests that the club has been forced to find an alternative solution, which has come in the form of ex-Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan.
The midfielder arrived as a free agent ahead of the 2023/24 season, and went on to make 51 appearances, contributing with five goals and 14 assists, and establishing himself has an important member of the first team.
Barca, however, are thought to see the German as an opportunity to raise funds for "dream signings" Olmo and Williams, and have a small window of opportunity to do so as the Germany international's contract at the Camp Nou is set to expire at the end of the coming campaign.
Given the situation, Qatari side Al Sadd are believed to be interested in snapping up Gundogan, while it has also been reported that an unnamed Saudi Arabian club has submitted an offer for the midfielder.
It is claimed teams in the Middle East country have previously been keen on signing the 33-year-old, with it being said that he had the option to join Al Ittihad before making the switch to Barca.
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The former Borussia Dortmund captain, meanwhile, is thought be keen on staying at the LALIGA side, and is committed to the upcoming season under new manager Hansi Flick.
The pair will supposedly hold discussions over Gundogan's situation during the Blaugrana's pre-season preparations in the United States.