Manchester United's pursuit of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has received a boost.

The Daily Star says United were battling Barcelona for the German's signature.

But Barca were yesterday slapped with a transfer ban preventing them buying players in the next TWO transfer windows.

Dortmund have confirmed Gundogan, who has just over a year left on his current deal, a new contract.

But despite their offer, it's understood the German wants out.

Gundogan is valued at around £25m but that will decrease the closer his contract comes to expiring.