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Manchester United have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Borussia Dortmund's Ilkay Gundogan after the midfielder signed a one-year contract extension with the Bundesliga side.
The 24-year-old is believed to have been one of Louis van Gaal's primary summer transfer targets following Dortmund's confirmation in April that the Germany international had decided not to extend his stay at the club past 2016.
Gundogan later revealed he was in talks with Bayern Munich and Barcelona about a move abroad while United were also linked with the midfielder.
However, despite reported interest from United and a host of European sides, Gundogan has now performed a U-turn on his decision to leave Dortmund after the club confirmed the midfielder had extended his current deal until June 30, 2017.
"I am glad that we finally have clarity [on my future] and I can continue playing for Borussia Dortmund," he told the club's official website.
"I am now fully focused on preparations for the new season."
Sporting director Michael Zorc added: "We are pleased that Ilkay will continue to play for Borussia Dortmund.
"I am convinced that he will help BVB achieve our sporting objectives."
The news comes after United's 'official online gaming and betting partner' Bwin sparked speculation that Gundogan could become Van Gaal's second signing of the summer when they welcomed the German to Old Trafford on Twitter last month.
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The company quickly deleted the message, and the player will now not be joining the Red Devils this summer as he prepares to stay at Dortmund for the next two years.
