Manchester United are set to secure the shock signing of former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan.

The German international won five Premier League titles with United’s rivals but he was desperate to return to Manchester by any means necessary.

Gundogan made the switch to Barcelona on a free transfer last year, securing a lucrative salary, but the Catalan club have run up against Financial Fair Play restrictions and they have had to cut their cloth accordingly.

They are willing to allow the 33-year-old to move back to England without a fee being paid in order to free up their wage bill.

Why has Gundogan chosen United?

A return to City would have been the most logical decision for the midfielder but manager Pep Guardiola has decided that there is no room for him in his squad.

With Gundogan’s wife, Sara, said to be missing her life in Manchester, it meant there was no other choice but to accept United’s proposal. The German’s partner had previously described the food in the city as “horrible”, upsetting locals, but she has apparently had a change of heart.

Other Barcelona players could follow Gundogan to Old Trafford

Due to Barca’s financial problems, it has also been suggested that the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, Pedri,  and even Frenkie de Jong could join Gundogan in Manchester.

De Jong has been on United’s radar for the best part of two years but, up until now, the Dutchman has been reluctant to link up with his former manager Erik ten Hag. It seems the Red Devils could finally get their man.

These deals will take place at the beginning of a future transfer window, or perhaps not. As you may have gathered, this is an April Fool’s story. Have a good day and don’t believe everything you read on the internet!