German newspaper Bild reported on Monday that Bayern Munich are preparing another summer raid on Borussia Dortmund to sign German international Ilkay Gundogan.
Given their habit of taking players from their domestic rivals, this wouldn't be too hard to believe. However, the story goes on to claim that the German champions are willing to offer midfielder and former Dortmund star Mario Gotze in part-exchange for his international team mate.
Dortmund are expecting to lose Gundogan this summer given they confirmed recently that the player would not be signing a new contract at Signal Iduna Park. His current deal expires in 2016, and it's believed the club are willing to cash in on him now instead of losing him on a free transfer in a year's time.
Manchester United and Arsenal have been strongly linked with the 24-year-old too, and it was even reported last month that United had struck a deal with Jurgen Klopp's side to secure the midfielder. There's yet to be any confirmation on where the player will be going, though he is nigh-on certain to leave.
Bayern could be considered a potential destination for the player, given their history in signing Gotze and striker Robert Lewandowski. Both joined the Bavarians in consecutive summers and have gone on to help Bayern to various successes since joining.
However, given the price they paid for Gotze and the fact that Gundogan will be available for a cut-priced fee (given the amount of time left on his contract) this move looks unlikely to say the very least.
Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has confirmed that Gundogan wants to leave, according to Sky Sport, though the club are confident of keeping centre half Mats Hummels in Germany.
He said: "Ilkay told us he wants to leave this summer. But we have received no offers from any clubs for any of our players as of now.
"Every player always has to make decisions on their future but, for us, the intention is clear to keep Mats."