Ilkay Gundogan signing confirmed

German midfielder pens four year deal at the Etihad

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of midfielder Ilkay Gundogan on their website this morning. The German international has joined on a four year deal, for an initial feee believed to be £19.2m.

The Borussia Dortmund player becomes the first signing of the Pep Guardiola era, with further deals expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The Blues have been closely linked with moves for Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte, Everton's John Stones and Leroy Sane from Schalke 04.

“I’m thrilled to have signed for Manchester City,” said Gundogan. “When I learned of City’s interest my heart was set on coming here and things have moved very quickly.

“I have loved my time with Borussia Dortmund and I would like to thank the club and the supporters for the five very happy years I spent there.

“They gave me a platform to play on and I became a better player because of the belief, patience and trust they showed in me.

“Now I have a new challenge and that is to achieve great things with City. The opportunity to work with a coach like Pep Guardiola is something I am really looking forward to and I am flattered to be the first signing the Club has made this summer.

“I can promise the City fans I will give everything to help us win titles both in England and the Champions League. These are exciting times.

“I have my best years ahead of me and I think we can achieve great things together. I can’t wait to begin this new chapter in my career.”