Galatasaray continues to build an ambitious squad ahead of the new season, and after landing Leroy Sané, the Turkish giants now have their sights set on another marquee signing: İlkay Gündoğan, who has reportedly emerged as a top candidate to leave Manchester City.

Midfield maestro targeted

The Istanbul-based club is preparing a two-year contract offer for Gündoğan, with an optional third year. The 34-year-old midfielder is known to be a lifelong Galatasaray supporter, which could play a key role in tipping the scales in favor of a potential deal.

Despite interest from several Saudi Arabian clubs, reports indicate that Gündoğan’s priority is to join Galatasaray. He is said to be in talks with his family about relocating to Turkey, with the aim of ending his career at the club he has always admired.

Contract complications ahead

Although Gündoğan still has one year remaining on his deal with Manchester City, Galatasaray is reportedly unwilling to pay a transfer fee. The club hopes the player will negotiate an exit with the English champions, allowing him to move on a free transfer.

The German international has been included in Manchester City’s squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, and any move is expected to be finalized only after the tournament. His participation could be one of his last acts in a City shirt.

If the transfer goes through, İlkay Gündoğan would fulfill a lifelong dream by donning the Galatasaray jersey. It would mark a fitting finale to a stellar career that included spells at Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona, and Manchester City under the guidance of Pep Guardiola.