Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho reportedly sets his sights on trying to lure a Barcelona star to the Turkish giants.
Jose Mourinho reportedly has ambitions to try to attract a Barcelona star to Fenerbahce before the end of the summer transfer window.
Soon after the end of 2023-24, Mourinho was the surprise name to take over the reins at the Turkish giants after their near-miss in the Super Lig title chase.
At the time, the Portuguese stated that he wanted to join a team capable of winning a league trophy, rather than merely competing for European qualification.
Mourinho has already succeeded in pulling off some notable transfer coups, attracting former Newcastle United star Allan Saint-Maximin and Sevilla forward Youssef En-Nesyri to the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
However, at a time when Fenerbahce face an almighty battle to qualify for the main phase of the Champions League with Lille their opponents in the third qualifying round, there is an acknowledgment that further improvements are required.
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Fenerbahce ready to move for Gundogan
According to AS, Fenerbahce view Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan as the club’s high-profile signing of the summer.
The 33-year-old was a key figure in the engine room last season, contributing five goals and 14 assists during his first year at the Catalan giants.
As it stands, the Germany international appears likely to retain his leadership role under new head coach Hansi Flick, someone that he has played under at international level.
From Barcelona’s perspective, though, there is an openness to do business for the majority of their squad for the right price in order to bolster their position with La Liga’s financial rules.
While Gundogan is most certainly not at the top of list of potential exits, his age and having less than a year remaining on his contract come into consideration.
Fenerbahce officials are reportedly preparing what is perceived to be a tempting proposal for the former Manchester City man.
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Is a transfer likely?
On the face of it, it appears unlikely that Gundogan will depart Barcelona after just one season, yet his heritage may come into his thinking having been born to Turkish parents.
Gundogan has never played in Turkey at any level, and it is unclear whether that is part of his plans before the end of his career.
The clubs would also need to determine what a fair fee would be. With Barcelona having signed Gundogan on a free transfer, they stand to make a profit.