Barcelona want to make Dortmund’s Gundogan a long-term successor to the Spaniard.
Barcelona have become the latest top European side to show interest in Borussia Dortmund ace Ilkay Gundogan along with Arsenal and Manchester United, according to The Daily Express.
The Premier League duo were alerted to the fact that the German was ready to move on from the Westfalenstadion, but Barca are keen to prepare for life without midfielder Xavi.
The Spaniard is now 33 and is in the twilight years of his career at the Nou Camp – whilst Gundogan is 10 years Xavi’s junior.
Spanish daily AS say that sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta is set to travel to Dortmund next week to start discussions with the Bundesliga side about a transfer.
The 23-year-old has barely played for the Yellow and Blacks this term due to a spinal injury that is likely to keep him out until the New Year.
Since signing for Dortmund in 2011 from FC Nurnberg, Gundogan has impressed greatly and is now a firmly established member of the first team.
The midfield ace is recognised as one of the best box-to-box midfielders playing in Europe currently and has plenty of Champions League experience and eight caps for Germany.
Gundogan is perhaps a better attacking midfielder than defensively however, with Jurgen Klopp often playing the German in the No.10 role behind Robert Lewandowski.
The passing and dribbling skills of the player make the young talent a real threat in offensive positions, but the midfielder’s tackling leaves something to be desired on occasions.
The news won’t please the Gunners and United, who both want more reinforcement in the middle of the park.
Arsene Wenger’s team are perhaps in less need however, with the form of youngsters Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere coupled with the brilliant displays from club record signing Mesut Ozil.
The Red Devils on the other hand have been criticised for being too lightweight in midfield and that not enough creativity comes from the area.
Michael Carrick has been consistent once again but £27.5m new boy Marouane Fellaini has struggled to adapt to life at Old Trafford.
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