Barca confirms signing of Gundogan

Spain La Liga champions are set to sign Ilkay Gundogan - who captained Man City last season - on a two-year deal.

"Barca and Gundogan have reached an agreement to sign a contract after his contract with Man City expires," Barca announced on the afternoon of June 26. "The contract is for two years with an option to extend for one year. The release clause is worth 436 million USD."

Barca posted a photo welcoming Gundogan on the afternoon of June 26. Photo: FCB — Barca posted a photo welcoming Gundogan on the afternoon of June 26. Photo: *FCB*

Previously, on June 21, European media reported on this deal. Gundogan did not agree to a one-season extension with Man City, and waited until June 30 - the contract expiration date - to move to Barca.

Last season, Gundogan helped Man City win the treble. The 32-year-old German midfielder scored twice in the FA Cup final win over Man Utd 2-1. Gundogan won a total of five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, two Community Shields and one Champions League, in seven years with Man City.

In his farewell speech, Gundogan described himself as forever part of the "Man City family". He also thanked coach Pep Guardiola, his teammates, the fans and the club. "During my time here, I was lucky to experience many unforgettable moments," the midfielder added. "Being captain in this special season was the best experience of my career."

Gundogan celebrates scoring in the FA Cup final on June 3. Photo: Reuters — Gundogan celebrates scoring in the FA Cup final on June 3. Photo: *Reuters*

Gundogan arrived at Barca to fill the void left by Sergio Busquets. Previously, the former Barca captain refused to sign a new contract to join Inter Miami. Busquets is preparing to reunite with his old teammate Lionel Messi.

Last season, Barca won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. However, coach Xavi's team was eliminated in the Champions League group stage for the second consecutive time. They also lost 1-4 on aggregate to Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

Gundogan is Barca's first summer signing. The La Liga champions are also chasing Joao Cancelo, Marcelo Brozovic, Giovani Lo Celso and Adrien Rabiot. In turn, they have released Busquets and Jordi Alba, while also looking to offload Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti, Sergino Dest, Nico Gonzalez, Francisco Trincao, Ansu Fati, Franck Kessie and Ferran Torres.