Ilkay Gündogan has insisted he is happy at Manchester City but admitted he once held talks with Bayern Munich over a potential move.
Gündogan moved to City in 2016 but initially endured frustration at the club as injuries stopped him making an immediate impact.
He’s since came back strongly, becoming a key player in the double title-winning side Pep Guardiola has assembled.
Last season the midfielder made 50 appearances in all competitions, starting 36 of those games in City’s midfield, while he has also started seven of his ten appearances this season.
That’s not stopped the rumour mills from churning over the years, with regular suggestions that the German midfielder could look for a move away from the Etihad.
He moved to end those rumours last month by signing a new deal that will keep him at Manchester City until 2023 and says there was no hesitation to do so, despite talks with Bayern Munich.
“I did not really hesitate, the club and I was already aware that we want to continue together. We were just looking for the right moment to sign,” he told Süddeutsche Zeitung.
“Let’s put it this way: My sources would confirm that. (he spoke to Bayern).
“Today you can say that frankly: There were some discussions with Bayern Munich, we did not come together for different reasons.
“And now I am very happy with Manchester City; I do not think there is a club I would be better off with at the moment. And not a coach either.”
