Ilkay Gundogan could leave Barcelona this weekend after a shock clause in his contract was revealed.
The German signed for the Catalan club from Manchester City just six weeks ago but could be packing his bags on Sunday if he hasn’t been registered by then.
Gundogan’s last act as a Man City player was lifting the Champions League in June Credit: getty
Gundogan turned down a contract extension at City to sign for Barcelona Credit: Getty
Gundogan described his free transfer switch to the Nou Camp as a ‘dream’ shortly after guiding City to a historic Treble.
City had offered the midfielder a contract extension but Gundogan opted for a pay cut, to seal his move to Barcelona.
But ahead of the new La Liga season this weekend, Gundogan is yet to be registered as a Barca player.
According to Forbes, a clause in his contract allows him to walk out of the club on Sunday as a free agent if they don’t register him before the Getafe clash.
To make matters worse, reports in Spain suggest Gundogan would still be paid for an entire year – a situation cash-strapped Barca would be keen to avoid.
The German’s short time at Barcelona has not been the smoothest after having picked up an injury on the club’s pre-season tour of the United States.
After making a second-half appearance in the defeat to Arsenal, Gundogan limped out of the 3-0 win over rivals Real Madrid in Texas.
It remains to be seen whether he plays any part in the Joan Gamper Cup against Tottenham on Tuesday
Bracelona have just 13 players registered as they begin their defence of the La Liga title this weekend.
Two of the 13 players are set to leave the club in the coming days with Ousmane Dembele expected to sign for Paris Saint-Germain and Franck Kessie subject of a bid from Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli.