While Xavi wants him, Guardiola's tactics to keep Gündogan at Manchester City

Manchester City have the most wanted players in Europe at the moment. Josep Guardiola knows that, but the English club's financial power means they can keep them in a less problematic way than other clubs. He knows that a contract renewal for any player would be for many millions and they would be delighted to be able to re-sign and continue under the Spanish coach who has achieved the treble this season.

There is only one case that worries the Iberian coach. Ílkay Gündogan is starting to have daily talks with FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández. The Catalan coach is starting to talk to him about the plans he has for the Turkish-born, but naturalised German and the leadership they need in midfield after an outstanding but not outstanding season in the European arena after being eliminated from the group stage of the UEFA Champions League.

Gündogan, who came through the ranks at Borussia Dortmund, understands that being at Manchester City at the moment is a guaranteed success. But the FC Barcelona adventure would go beyond money and comfort. He understands that the Spanish club's history is much bigger than the one the Citizens are forging this season and that there is still a lot more to be done before they can be considered one of the greatest in English history.

That is why the German midfielder has to analyse in depth all his options given to the two teams. He may not have been assured of the captaincy, but the Catalans have offered him to be the absolute leader in the dressing room. While Guardiola still sees Gündogan as the key player who brought so many victories in the last few games and who, without being a centre-forward, scored an extraordinary amount of goals.

What will Xavi and Guardiola offer Gündogan?

The website Relevo claims that the arrival of Ílkay Gündogan at FC Barcelona is in its final stages. They know that the German is thinking of not renewing his contract with Manchester City, who are offering him another year and 5 million euros guaranteed. While the Spaniards are interested in making him the pillar of their sporting project for the next three seasons. So they think that the veteran midfielder can still give a lot to professional football.