In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Ilkay Gündogan denied reports from Turkish media that he no longer has a future at Galatasaray and was supposed to be released in the winter. He emphasized that the rumours are not true, stating that he wants to stay at the club beyond the winter and give everything to win another championship with Galatasaray. Until his contract expires next year, Gündogan apparently has no intention of leaving the club.

According to information from 'Sabah', Ilkay Gündogan is considered a candidate for a winter transfer. The club reportedly wants Gündogan and other unnamed players to depart as quickly as possible in the upcoming transfer window. The motivation is to save his high salary of 4.5 million euros per year by arranging a departure in January.

According to Fanatik, some clubs from Saudi Arabia are interested in İlkay Gündoğan. The report adds that possible offers are expected to become clearer as the January transfer window approaches. It is also stated that Gündoğan's priority is to play regularly and have an important role in a project during the final part of his career.

Journalist Ibrahim Seten stated on the YouTube channel 343 Digital that many clubs, including Italian ones, are seeking a high-quality midfielder. He added that Ilkay Gündogan could consider a move to Italy, his wife's country of origin, if he accepts a significant reduction in salary.