“Gundogan’s Medical Exam for Barca Passed… Three Years Ago?!”

Ilkay Gundogan was tantalizingly close to putting pen to paper on a contract with Barcelona. So near, in fact, that the German sensation had already completed the rigorous medical examination required by the Spanish titans as far back as 2015. However, Barcelona opted instead for Arda Turan, and Gundogan eventually found his way to Manchester City a year later.

Fast forward to matchday 36 of the Premier League, where Gundogan marked his illustrious 300th game for City with an away fixture at Everton. A remarkable achievement, joining an elite group of only ten foreign players to attain such a milestone with the English side.

Despite his impressive record, Gundogan is due to be out of contract next month, with reports speculating that Barcelona is making a push to secure his signature for the upcoming season. In fact, “Mundo Deportivo” even suggests that the German midfielder was on the brink of becoming a “Cule” back in 2015.

According to the outlet, Gundogan had successfully passed the stringent medical requirements of Luis Enrique’s team at the time, and there appeared to be a complete agreement among all parties. However, the timing of the transfer window happening simultaneously with the club’s presidential elections sealed the deal’s fate.

Ultimately, the Board, led by Chairman Ramon Adell, ultimately settled on the Turkish midfielder, Arda Turan, in a colossal deal worth 34 million euros. Unfortunately, Turan failed to live up to expectations at the Spanish giants.

Subsequently, Gundogan left the Bundesliga a year later and signed with Manchester City. However, the stars may be aligning, as new reports suggest a fresh opportunity for the German ace to fulfill his dream of donning the Barca stripes after all.