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Ilkay Gundogan could still choose Arsenal

By Josh Sippie

By Michael Kranewitter (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
By Michael Kranewitter (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons /
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Ilkay Gundogan was one of the players more heavily-linked to Arsenal this past January, but no move ever materialized. While Borussia Dortmund was in a downward spiral, they pulled up in 7th place and maintained Marco Reus and the host of other players that were rumored to be leaving due to a lack of success.

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However, they did not retain Jurgen Klopp as manager.

Regardless, Ilkay Gundogan has apparently realized that his situation is getting a bit absurd (I wish more people would realize this) and has promised to make a decision after their Euro Qualifier. His statement (via ESPNFC):

"“In spite of only a few transfers being done in Europe so far, people urged me to make a final decision sooner rather than later with every published rumour. What was completely forgotten: I still have one year left on my contract at Dortmund. I will make a decision about my future as soon as possible, but only after the end of the season and our important European Championships qualifier with the national team [against Gibraltar on Saturday].”"

From the sounds of it, very little is certain. However, this summer is going to determine it. The likelihood of Ilkay Gundogan returning to the German outfit without signing a contract extension are slim to none. They do not want to run the risk of letting him go for free come next summer.

Gundogan cited June 30th as the big decision date, claiming that was when the season technically ended.

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If Arsenal were truly as heavily involved as everyone would have us think, then their ears have to be perked up for any signs of a potential move. While it would not be surprising to see him stay strong with his comrades in Germany, the allure of the Premier League is tough to resist and with a heavy German contingent at Arsenal already, he would feel right at home.

Gundogan is an incredibly versatile midfielder who can play a holding role or a more advanced role. We know that Arsene Wenger is a fan of versatility so that always increases the odds. However, Wenger has blatantly stated that he is happy with Arsenal’s midfield crop so that has to apply to Gundogan as well. In the end though, it may just be Arsene Wenger blowing steam to avoid talking about his transfer plans.

At 24 years of age, Gundogan would fit into this golden age of Arsenal midfielders. His rumored injury problems are not really a trend, as it was only one big injury that kept him sidelined.

At just around 15 million pounds, the price of Ilkay Gundogan make him a sound investment. Now we just have to wait until June 30th and beyond.

Next: Did Arsenal miss out on Luciano Vietto?

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