Shortly after Fabrizio Romano announced Mateo Kovacic’s signing with his famous “HERE WE GO” tweet, another one has already surfaced, this time for Ilkay Gundogan.
Ilkay Gündogan to Barcelona, here we go! Final approval arrived on club side to register him as new signing, green light from the player. It’s done deal, signed few minutes ago. 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
Gündogan has agreed a two year deal valid until June 2025 with option for further year. pic.twitter.com/Gr467hNBms
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2023
The German has agreed personal terms with the Blaugranas and two clubs also have reached an agreement which was substantially confirmed in Barca’s club president Laporta’s recent interview where he had raised his thumb when asked about the signing of Gundogan.
Barça president Joan Laporta’s reaction when asked about Ilkay Gündogan deal 🔵🔴👍🏻 #FCB @JosepSoldado
Green light arrived few minutes ago… and here we go confirmed for Barça. pic.twitter.com/xr1O0z5aCf
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2023
The midfielder who leaves as a free agent has agreed to a two-year deal with the club until 2025 and has an option to extend his contract until 2026. Barcelona after the departure of Sergio Busquets were in dire straits of signing a captain figure and who better than a seasoned champion who has trophies in his veins.
Gundogan was always a top target for Barcelona and the only obstacle coming in between both parties was Barcelona’s financial instability which now seems to have been resolved. Barcelona’s pursuit towards the treble winner intensified after it was confirmed that their very own Lionel Messi will not make a comeback.
Barcelona have been comical yet again with their release clause and have signed the champion for a release clause of €500 million. Ilkay Gundogan will prove to be a major boost for the champions of Spain who are looking to reignite their force in Europe.
Manchester City had planned the Germans’ exit well in advance and had already signed his replacement in Kovacic for a £30 million deal. The Citizens would have wanted for the German to stay after his historic performances in the latter stages of leagues that helped them win the continental treble.
Barcelona are yet to register Ilkay Gundogan but that should not be an issue. We may soon see official posts from both clubs indicating Gundogan’s departure and confirming that his last game for Manchester City was the Champions League final: one he will never forget.
