Manchester City are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, but remain a way short of his valuation.
According to Sky Sports, City have shown a willingness to pay €35m, but Dortmund value their star midfielder at €45m.
In turn, it will now test how much City want to sign the Germany international, as he is seen as a key part of Pep Guardiola’s plans when he arrives in the summer to replace Manuel Pellegrini ahead of next season.
Gundogan’s current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2017, and having failed to show a desire to sign an extension to this point, Dortmund could be forced into a situation where they have to sell this year in order to avoid losing him for nothing.
However, they have no intention of making concessions on his price-tag to reflect that, and will stick by their €45m valuation this summer to really put the pressure on Guardiola and City.
As per Sky Sports, a meeting was held in March in Amsterdam between the player’s uncle and agent and City sporting director Txiki Begiristain, with reports suggesting that personal terms were agreed upon.
While it is widely acknowledged that Dortmund will not be able to offer the same figures to Gundogan, it places his future with the Bundesliga outfit in doubt.
Given his combative nature, tireless work ethic, vision and passing ability, he would appear to be a perfect fit for the Premier League, and would play a key role in getting City playing the style of football that Guardiola will look to instil.
As a result, it would be no surprise if City raised their offer and tried to meet Dortmund’s demands, as they will look to put all the pieces in place for Guardiola to succeed.
In contrast, it is a worrying time for Dortmund, as they will have a battle on their hands to keep hold of their star players this summer with Gundogan not the only big name to be linked with an exit.