Borussia Dortmund will try to extend Ilkay Gundogan’s contract according to the club’s sporting director Michael Zorc.

Zorc confirmed that negotiations are ongoing with the Gelsenkirchen-born midfielder.

“It’s clear that Ilkay is one of our key players. That’s why we try and prolong his contract,” Zorc was quoted as saying by ESPN.

“If necessary, we will have patience.”

ESPN go onto state that Dortmund want to resolve Gundogan’s contract situation by March rather than to let it drag on until the end of the season.

Arsenal – who are looking to strengthen their side over the summer – have expressed an interest in Gundogan according to TalkSport.

The sports radio station claim that Gundogan’s refusal to renew his contract could spark a summer bidding war.

Gundogan has six assists and three goals in 32 appearances for Dortmund this season. The 25-year-old’s career began at Nuremberg before moving to Dortmund for £4m in 2011.

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