According to reports, Arsenal have missed out on signing Ilkay Gundogan this summer.
Since Granit Xhaka is on the verge of leaving the club, which is set to be confirmed only once Arsenal bring in a replacement, Mikel Arteta is after two midfielders this summer with one being Ilkay Gundogan. However it appears the Gunners are set to miss out on the German international.
Having signed for the Citizens in 2016 and winning five Premier League titles in seven years, it appears the German is ready for his next challenge after rejecting Manchester City’s latest contract offer. Mikel Arteta was keen on bringing the 32-year-old to the Emirates Stadium next season to provide some much needed experience to his young Arsenal side.
However according to Fabrizio Romano, Ilkay Gundogan has chosen his next club which is to be FC Barcelona as the Spanish giants are set to register him as a new signing shortly.
Mikel Arteta has missed out on one of his midfield targets, however the club are still confident of securing their number one summer priority in Declan Rice ahead of next season.
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
READ MORE:Â Arsenal complete their first signing of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners are set to submit a third bid for Declan Rice by the end of the week. Arsenal are confident their third bid will be the one that closes the deal as they prepare an improved payment structure and more money upfront to offer West Ham.
As well as Declan Rice, Arsenal are also interested in signing Romeo Lavia with Southampton valuing the player at around £40million.
The Gunners are set to have a completely new midfield for the 2023/24 campaign with the likes of Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka expected to be sold over the next month or so.
NEXT ARTICLE:Â Mikel Arteta turns down PSG with new contract being prepared for the Arsenal boss.
