Guardiola: "I know Barça boss Xavi has called Gündogan many times"

Pep Guardiola referred to Ilkay Gündogan's situation at the start of the Puma Legends Trophy golf tournament in Catalonia on Monday.

The Manchester City coach was asked about the future of the German, who is debating whether to stay at the English side or join Barcelona. 

"We are very interested and they are also very interested," Guardiola began with a smile.  

Guardiola praised the player at various points and has insisted on the importance they place on his renwal at City, with his current deal expiring this month.

"I hope he stays with us," he added. "I want him to do well and we are still fighting for him to stay with us. He is a player we are going to try to keep, we want him to stay, we will do everything we can, but we know Barça want him too."

Pep has also joked about Xavi's calls to the player to make him opt for the Blaugrana proposal.

"If they take him, they are going to take a spectacular player," he said. "I know that Xavi is calling him a lot. If in the end, he decides for Barça, I'll tell 'Gundo' you'll have a great time."

Barça are still awaiting a definitive response from the German midfielder, whose contract with City expires on 30 June. A response was expected after the Champions League final but the player asked for more time to make a final decision.