Manchester United want Borussia Dortmund star Ilkay Gundogan to be Michael Carrick's successor at OT

Manchester United are considering a move in signing Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

The 24-year-old spent more time on the treatment table last season and has returned to full fitness at the beginning of this campaign. He has already featured in 19 league games, scoring three goals and managing three assists in the process.

The German international has one year left on his contract and has not agreed a new deal with his current employers. Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp will leave the club at the end of the season and his departure could lead to several high profile players' exit from Signal Iduna Park.

United manager Louis van Gaal is an admirer of Gundogan and has set his sights on signing the midfield. The 20-times English champions have the services of Michael Carrick, who recently agreed a one-year extension of his stay at Old Trafford till 2016.

Carrick will turn 34 later in July and is in the twilight of his career. He has been instrumental in United's midfield this term and the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager is impressed with the England international's performance.

However, injuries to the Red Devils' star man have been a matter of worry at Old Trafford. United are looking for a long-term replacement for Carrick and Van Gaal has identified Gundogan as his successor.

With one year left on his contract, Dortmund are willing to listen to offers for Gundogan rather than let him leave for nothing at the end of the next season.

Meanwhile, United will face tough competition from their league rivals Arsenal in signing the German midfielder. According to talkSPORT, the Gunners are also in the frame in securing Gundogan's services as their manager Arsene Wenger is an admirer of the Bundesliga star.

The same report also claims the north London club are leading the race in landing Gundogan after opening talks with Dortmund over a potential summer move. It is going to be a transfer battle between the two Premier League giants in signing the Dortmund midfielder.