New Manchester City signing Ilkay Gundogan has revealed he almost joined City’s Old Trafford rivals before putting pen to paper at the Sky Blues.

Gundogan came close to agreeing terms at Manchester United back in the 2014-15 season, but ultimately opted against the move.

This time, however, the German midfielder has followed through on his intent to move, in so doing becoming Pep Guardiola’s first signing.

Gundogan is currently recovering from a dislocated kneecap,

‘Maybe last year it [a move to United] was close, but not everything happened like I wanted it to,’ the 25-year-old told Sport360.

‘Maybe it was not the right moment and at the end we decided to stay and renew my contract, to extend for one more year. We always had the conversation with Dortmund and agreed that if I left, I will not leave for free, for zero.’

The midfielder has admitted he wanted a change, as well as an opportunity to challenge himself.

‘I recognised over the last few months that I needed a change, to start from zero, to prove myself again.

‘Which is why I’m really happy to be here, to have the chance to work with Guardiola and this wonderful club,’ he concluded.

Photo: Manchester City Official Website