Manchester City 'preparing' contract extension for midfield star amid Juventus interest

Manchester City are preparing to offer Ilkay Gundogan a new contract.

The 31 year-old, who was Pep Guardiola's first Manchester City signing back in 2016, joined the club from Borussia Dortmund for £20 million eight years ago.

Gundogan has become an integral member of the Catalan bosses squad, being voted as club captain for the 2022/23 campaign following the departure of veteran midfielder Fernandinho.

The German, who was the Sky Blues' hero on the final day of last season, had been linked with a possible departure from the reigning Premier League Champions back in May.

Gundogan came off the bench to score twice against Aston Villa, as City came from 2-0 down to dramatically beat Steven Gerrard's side and retain the Premier League title.

The 31 year-old scored ten goals during the 2021/22 campaign, an underwhelming figure after netting on 17 occasions during the previous season.

Gundogan scored his 50th City goal on Saturday, opening the scoring against newly promoted Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium.

The Blues made it two wins from two, beating the Cherries 4-0 in sweltering conditions in East Manchester.

As well as refreshing Guardiola's squad with the additions of Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez, Kalvin Phillips and Stefan Ortega, City have looked to secure the long-term futures of several stars this summer.

Riyad Mahrez and Rodri have both penned new deals, while Phil Foden is on the verge of signing a new contract.

The Daily Star report that Ilkay Gundogan could be next in line for a contract extension, with less than 12 months remaining on the German midfielders current deal.

In May, Mike Keegan claimed that the 31 year-old was free to leave the club this summer, with it 'unlikely' for the former Dortmund player to be offered a new deal.

However, the Daily Star state that the Blues are preparing to offer Gundogan a new contract, amid interest from a number of European sides, including Serie A giants Juventus.

Pep Guardiola has reportedly informed Etihad chiefs to do 'everything possible' to keep Gundogan at the club beyond this season.

The Daily Star further claim that the 31 year-old favours remaining at Manchester City.

The recently named City skipper refused to comment on his long-term future earlier this month.

"We will see. Right now it's really just about focusing on the new season," the German replied to a tweet during a Q&A.

City are already facing the prospect of losing fellow midfielder Bernardo Silva, who continues to be linked with a possible move to Barcelona this summer.