I AM NOT A MERCENARY, SAYS GUNDOGAN

The Germany international has rejected the notion that he cornered his club Borussia Dortmund into letting him go, insisting the wages he is asking for are fair

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan insists his next move will not be motivated by money.

The playmaker is out of contract in June 2016 and will not sign a new deal, meaning he is expected to be sold on this summer so the club avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Speculation surrounding his next move has intensified since the conclusion of the 2014-15 campaign, and Sportchin understands that Manchester United are leading the chase to acquire the midfielder's signature.

But the 24-year-old has taken offence at some of the stories that have been circulating and has spoken out against the media on Facebook.

"Normally I do not address media reports, especially not on Facebook. I want to explain some things and give you a better insight," he wrote.

"In recent weeks, I, like you, read again and again that where I was signing was already agreed. Today I am in contract negotiations here, tomorrow I'm having a medical there.

"At first I could smile about it, but then there was talk of 'contract poker' and 'rip-off', that painted me in a bad light.

"Yesterday an ominous number [the reported wages he was demanding] appeared in the media and so I have now decided to say something about it. The 2014-15 season strictly speaking only ends on 30.06.2015.

"Although so far there have hardly been any transfers completed in Europe, rumour to rumour I was supposed to have demanded more and more, putting off making a final decision.

"Some have forgotten: I have one more year on my contract with BVB. What is important to me is that I'm not gambling financially or using delaying tactics.

"What's next for me personally, I will reveal as soon as possible. But only after the season and Germany's important game for the European Championship qualifier with the national team will I decide."

The Germany international has also been linked with Barcelona and Bayern Munich.