Fenerbahce start talks to sign Barcelona veteran superstar at Mourinho’s request

Heading into the new season, there has been some speculation about the future of Barcelona midfield veteran Ilkay Gundogan.

The 33-year-old was one of the Catalans’ best players last season – his debut campaign with the club and was tipped for an important role in the team under new manager Hansi Flick in the next term.

However, the club’s Financial Fair Play situation, coupled with Gundogan’s salary and the excessive options in midfield, have opened the door for a possible departure.

Fenerbahce interested

Previously, Galatasaray were understood to be considering a move for Ilkay Gundogan this summer, although the rumours died down quite soon.

Now, though, Mundo Deportivo reports that another Turkish club, Fenerbahce, are weighing up an attempt to sign the German international from Barcelona.

New manager Jose Mourinho is believed to have asked Fenerbahce to sign Gundogan after he lost midfielder Fred to an injury.

With Rade Krunic’s form not impressive the Portuguese tactician sees the signing of a new midfielder as a priority and the Barcelona veteran is at the top of his wishlist.

In fact, the report even suggests that Fenerbahce’s vice president has even initiated negotiations to explore the possibility of a transfer.

Gundogan wants to stay

Despite the speculations, however, Gundogan is not looking to leave Barcelona this summer and in fact even intends to see out his contract at the club.

Barcelona, for their part, cannot afford to lose someone of Gundogan’s experience, knowledge, and versatility, especially with the number of youth players in the squad.

The former Manchester City captain is currently in the USA with the rest of the squad on the pre-season tour and even though there is plenty of time left in the window, an exit looks unlikely.