Ilkay Gündogan in action training for Manchester City in 2025

İlkay Gündoğan edging closer to Galatasaray switch despite agent denials

John William Last updated: Jul 16, 2025, 1:11 pm
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Image: IMAGO / HMB-Media

İlkay Gündoğan’s future at Manchester City is back under the spotlight, with growing reports suggesting the midfielder is on the brink of joining Galatasaray — despite public denials from his agent.

The Turkish giants are said to be pushing hard to sign the 33-year-old, who has just one year left on his City deal. This comes after a season where Gündoğan featured in 54 matches across all competitions, helping Pep Guardiola’s side to a third-place finish and a Club World Cup title.

“There’s no official agreement with any club,” said Ilhan Gündoğan. — Ilhan Gündoğan via Turkish media

But Turkish outlet Fotomac claim the situation has changed behind the scenes.

Galatasaray Confident – Whether or Not Osimhen Signs

Much of the speculation around Gündoğan had been linked to whether Galatasaray could also bring back Victor Osimhen. The Napoli striker spent last season on loan in Istanbul, and his permanent return has been touted.

However, Fotomac now report that Gündoğan’s move is not dependent on Osimhen’s deal. In fact, Gala are optimistic they will land the German international regardless.

They also claim Gündoğan has already agreed personal terms, with a proposed salary of €6m per season.

Gündoğan’s Istanbul Return Would Be Huge

Gündoğan has long been linked with a move to the Turkish Super Lig — especially Galatasaray, the club he supported growing up. If completed, the move would see him become one of the highest-profile Premier League players to head to Turkey in recent years.

Whether City will sanction a deal before his contract expires in June 2026 remains to be seen. But the feeling in Istanbul is that it’s just a matter of time.

Gündoğan 2024/25 Season Stats

Stat Value
Appearances 54
Goals 7
Assists 11
Pass Accuracy 89%
Chances Created 63

Analyst Verdict

Gündoğan has nothing left to prove at City — but his desire for one last career chapter in Turkey makes this move more than just emotional. At €6m per season, it’s steep — but for Gala, this is about statement and stability.

Key Talking Points

  • Gündoğan still has 1 year left on his contract
  • Agent denies talks, but Turkish media confident of deal
  • €6m-per-season offer reportedly agreed
  • Osimhen deal not a condition for his arrival

What’s Next?

Expect official confirmation from either Galatasaray or Manchester City in the coming days. If the deal happens, City may look to dip into the market for a midfield replacement — potentially opening the door to another blockbuster move before August.


Would you keep İlkay Gündoğan for another season or is it time to move on?

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