Barca confirms signing of Gundogan

Spain: La Liga champions will sign a two-year contract with Ilkay Gundogan, Manchester City's captain from last season.

"Barca and Gundogan have reached an agreement to sign a contract after his contract with Man City expired," 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."

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

Previously, starting on June 21st, European media had reported on this agreement. Gundogan did not agree to extend his contract with Man City for another season, and waited until June 30th – the date his contract expired – to move to Barca.

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

In his farewell speech, Gundogan said he would forever be a part of the "Man City family." He also thanked manager Pep Guardiola, his teammates, the fans, and the club. "During my time here, I was fortunate to experience so many unforgettable moments," the midfielder added. "Being captain in this exceptional season has been the best experience of my career."

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

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

Last season, Barca won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. However, Xavi's team were 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 signing this summer. The La Liga champions are also pursuing Joao Cancelo, Marcelo Brozovic, Giovani Lo Celso, and Adrien Rabiot. Conversely, they have released Busquets and Jordi Alba, and are considering offloading Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti, Sergino Dest, Nico Gonzalez, Francisco Trincao, Ansu Fati, Franck Kessie, and Ferran Torres.