Borussia Dortmund have admitted doubts over the future of Germany international midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, with Arsenal and Manchester United contemplating transfer bids.
Arsenal and Manchester United are each contemplating their next step after Borussia Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke suggested that midfield general Ilkay Gundogan could be sold.
The Daily Star reports that contract negotiations between Dortmund and Gundogan are at an impasse, with the Germany international’s deal set to expire in June 2015.
The Bundesliga giants are already set to lose Robert Lewandowski next summer, with the Polish striker deciding to run down his contract, and concerns are increasing around Gundogan’s intentions too.
“It is our absolute desire that besides Robert Lewandowski no other regular player leaves the club,” said Watzke.
“Only in the case of Ilkay Gundogan, we do not yet know how it will turn out. We would love to extend (a contract) with him.”
The newspaper go on to state that Arsene Wenger hopes to deploy Gundogan behind Mesut Ozil at the base of the Arsenal midfield.
The 23 year-old could be the perfect long term replacement for Mikel Arteta, 32, thanks to an impressive passing range, positional discipline and timing of the tackle.
These are all qualities that Manchester United manager David Moyes is looking for too however, and the Star suggest that Gundogan and Atletico Madrid playmaker Koke are the Red Devils’ top transfer targets.
Borussia Dortmund value Gundogan at £25 million, despite just a year and a half remaining on his contract, and it remains to be seen if either Manchester United or Arsenal will pay such a sum.
Gundogan is currently sidelined with a spinal injury, but is expected to return to action in January.
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