Veteran Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly on the verge of joining Galatasaray in a cost-effective move in the summer transfer window.

According to an update by reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ilkay Gundogan has been the subject of interest from Galatasaray. The Turkish Super Lig champions are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a versatile playmaker before the summer transfer window shuts down. So, the former Manchester City captain has been a target for Cimbom.

The 2024/25 Turkish Super Lig winners are on the cusp of landing the veteran midfielder after striking an agreement with Manchester City over a bargain move. The Premier League giants are allowing Gundogan to depart from the Etihad for free after saving on his salary from his exit. The player will sign a two-year contract with Galatasaray, and he has landed in Istanbul to complete the move.

Ilkay Gundogan and his storied Manchester City career

Ilkay Gundogan has been a Manchester City legend despite enduring a topsy-turvy ride since returning to the Etihad from Barcelona last summer. However, the 34-year-old was exceptional in his first stint with the Premier League outfit and served the Citizens as the club captain for a few years before moving to Barcelona in 2023.

The former German international has made over 350 appearances thus far for Manchester City while chipping in with 65 goals and 47 assists. However, Pep Guardiola did not pick Gundogan in the first three matches of the 2025/26 season, and the writing was on the wall. The veteran midfielder has now found his next destination, with Galatasaray on the cusp of securing his services.

Turkish adventure beckons

Ilkay Gundogan has been on Galatasaray’s radar throughout the summer transfer window, and they have ramped up their efforts to sign him this week. While Gabriel Sara’s links with Premier League clubs initially prompted Galatasaray to pursue Gundogan’s signature, he is a viable target irrespective of speculation surrounding a player.

Despite his advancing years, the former Manchester City captain has the quality to become a midfield linchpin for Galatasaray. The 2024/25 Turkish Super Lig winners struck an agreement with Manchester City over a summer move for Gundogan. The player has now given the green light to the move.

A report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football has revealed that crunch talks with Guardiola compelled Gundogan to seek a summer exit. the The former German international will leave Manchester City for free, with the Premier League club allowing that as they will save on his salary. The 34-year-old has arrived in Istanbul, and the deal should become official soon.