Manchester City is exploring the possibility of re-signing Ilkay Gundogan, who left the club for Barcelona in 2023 after a successful stint where he led the team to a historic Treble.

Gundogan’s potential return comes amid financial difficulties at Barcelona, which have impacted their ability to register new players, including Dani Olmo.

Barcelona’s ongoing financial troubles are a result of the club's strict economic regulations, which cap spending on player wages and other expenses based on the club’s earnings and outstanding financial obligations.

These rules, implemented by La Liga to ensure financial stability, are affecting Barcelona's ability to finalize transfers and register new signings.

City’s interest in Gundogan is partly driven by their current squad issues.

The team is dealing with the high-profile departure of Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid and an injury to Norwegian winger Oscar Bobb, who may be sidelined for up to four months.

Gundogan’s experience and familiarity with the club could provide an immediate solution without the need for an adjustment period.

Gundogan, who previously joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund for £20 million in 2016, has enjoyed a highly successful tenure at the club, making 304 appearances and scoring 60 goals.

During his seven years at the Etihad, he won numerous titles, including five Premier League trophies, one Champions League, and four Carabao Cups.

At Barcelona, Gundogan featured in 51 matches last season and scored five goals.

However, the financial constraints at Barcelona are forcing them to consider selling players to balance their squad cost limit, a measure aimed at maintaining fiscal discipline within the league