Ilkay Gundogan, the Barcelona midfielder, is expected to return to Manchester City this summer.

Gundogan left the Premier League champions as a free agent last year.

Barca's senior authorities are willing to trade the 33-year-old in order to alleviate their financial problems.

With Gundogan available on the market, City manager Pep Guardiola has all but given his approval for his return.

Fabrizio Romano, a football transfer specialist, reported this on Monday via his X account.

Romano wrote: "Manchester City has made touch with Ilkay Gündogan's team about a possible return for the German midfielder.

"City and Pep Guardiola are willing to discuss Gündo's comeback.

"Barça wants Gündogan to leave… and he also received approaches from Qatar, Saudi and more clubs."