Ilkay Gundogan may leave Borussia Dortmund

Ilkay Gundogan

The father and agent of Borussia Dortmund Ilkay Gundogan has admitted that his son could leave the German side in the summer, but insists that his current priority is to regain full fitness. The German midfielder has not played since the opening day of the season due to injury, but that has not stopped him being linked with a big money move to Manchester United.

Such speculation is surely set to reignite in the summer, with United still searching for central midfield reinforcements. Whilst Gundogan’s father said that Dortmund will be the first club that they speak to, he did concede that “everything is open” with regard to the 23 year old’s future.

“Everything is open. Dortmund are our first point of contact,” Gundogan senior told German magazine Kicker.

“We do not want to burden the boy with that. Ilkay must get healthy first. We will definitely sit together after that.”

Gundogan made 28 Bundesliga appearances last season, scoring three goals. However a back injury has stunted his progress this season, keeping him out of action since the opening day of the season. He has since returned to training, but is short of match fitness.

United have long been linked with a move to United, who are crying out for midfield reinforcements. The German international has just 18 months left on his contract, meaning that he would be in a strong bargaining position were he to seek a summer move.

Gundogan won 51 tackles last season; a success rate of 80%.