Xavi makes contact with soon-to-be free agent Ilkay Gundogan

Barcelona have intensified their pursuit of Ilkay Gundogan, with Diario AS reporting that Xavi has held talks with the Manchester City midfielder.

The German midfielder is out of contract at the end of this season, and Man City haven’t taken any significant step towards his renewal.

Furthermore, City’s interest in players like Declan Rice and Mateo Kovacic means that Gundogan could leave the Etihad Stadium this summer.

Barca have been showing utmost interest in the 32-year-old, who they have identified as one of the top targets to strengthen the midfield ranks.

It was previously reported that Gundogan could be a potential replacement for Sergio Busquets, whose current deal expires in the summer.

However, it now looks that the German international’s arrival would not affect Busquets’ future, with the Spaniard leaning towards continuing with his boyhood club.

Barcelona have already presented a one-year offer to Busquets, whom Xavi still considers pivotal to his plans.

The report also adds that Xavi wants to persuade Gundogan to Camp Nou while the player has also become convinced about joining the La Liga giants.

Gundogan is also willing to reduce his salary at Barca, considering their financial difficulties.

Barca, who are planning a three-year-contract, believe the former Borussia Dortmund star will bring a lot of experience and quality to the table, an aspect which was missing with the club when the key players were injured this season.

Gundogan has the versatility to play as a pivot and also as an interior and can easily fit into Xavi’s plans, given that he has been plying his trade for a long time under Pep Guardiola.

Barca have been linked with a host of midfielders, including Martin Zubimendi and Ruben Neves, but all look as far-fetched targets due to the significant transfer fee they might require.