Ilkay Gundogan joined Barcelona on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City, the Catalan club announced Monday.

The German midfielder, 32, has agreed to a two-year contract with a one-year extension option and a release clause of 400 million euros ($436 million).

"He brings his presence, nose for goal, and game reading that has made him one of the best midfielders of the last decade," Barcelona said in a statement.

PHOTO | COURTESY ilkay gundogan

Gundogan has been a key figure for Pep Guardiola's Manchester City team since he arrived in 2016, captaining the club to a spectacular triple this season.

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Guardiola revealed that City were trying to prolong the midfielder's contract after he scored twice in the FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester United.

Manchester City are set to sign Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea to help replace Gundogan, who won five Premier League titles during his stint at the club and helped them win their first-ever Champions League this season.

PHOTO | COURTESY ilkay gundogan

Gundogan joined City after winning the Bundesliga and German Cup with Borussia Dortmund 2012. In 304 appearances for Manchester City, he scored 60 goals.

Barcelona's new signing adds to a midfield that already included young Spaniards Pedri, Gavi, and Dutchman Frenkie de Jong.

However, coach Xavi Hernandez has stated that the team still needs to sign a defensive midfielder following the departure of captain Sergio Busquets to Inter Miami at the end of his contract.