Barcelona make improved offer to "priority" target after Messi snub

The Catalans have intensified their efforts to sign a new midfielder.

Barcelona have reportedly made a new offer to sign Ilkay Gundogan as a free agent.

Manchester City are yet to tie Gundogan to a new contract, with the German star’s contract deal expiring at the end of this month.

Barcelona have remained as Gundogan’s main suitors in the past few months, hoping a new offer would seal a free transfer for the 32-year-old.

According to the Athletic, the La Liga champions have made a new three-year offer to Gundogan’s representatives. Xavi reportedly sees the Man City star as a priority signing, hoping to add a new experienced star to his side’s midfield line.

The departure of Sergio Busquets has forced Barca to look for a new midfielder. Joshua Kimmich has also appeared on the Catalans’ radar, but Bayern Munich have no intention of selling him this summer.

Xavi has reportedly had several discussions with Gundogan, explaining his role in Barca’s squad. But the club’s difficult financial situation has seemingly convinced the former Borussia Dortmund star to postpone his decision.

The Catalans are unable to guarantee that they can register their new signings under La Liga rules. The same problem reportedly prevented the Blaugrana from completing a move for Lionel Messi earlier this summer.

Pep Guardiola is also eager to keep Gundogan in City’s squad as they prepare to defend three titles next season. A few English sources have also claimed that Arsenal are willing to join the race to sign the German international.