Manchester City are emerging as the frontrunners to secure the signature of Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, as reported by Christian Falk of Bild. The German international is reportedly valued at €130m (£111.6m), making City the most likely destination due to their financial capabilities compared to other interested clubs like Bayern Munich.
City boss Pep Guardiola is said to be the driving force behind the move for Wirtz, viewing him as the potential successor to Kevin De Bruyne as the club’s main playmaker. Falk suggests that Guardiola is a big fan of Wirtz and sees him as a versatile player who could potentially fill De Bruyne’s role in his own unique way, aligning with the manager’s tactics.
Leverkusen’s asking price significantly reduces the competition for Wirtz’s signature. The valuation of €130m (£111.6m) is said to be the minimum accepted by the Bundesliga club, with rumors suggesting they could demand as much as €150m (£129m). This high price point effectively rules out other potential suitors like Bayern, Chelsea, and Liverpool, leaving City as the most plausible destination.
Despite City’s interest, it is believed that Wirtz may opt to stay at Leverkusen for another year. This is contingent on Leverkusen securing Champions League football and retaining their current manager, Xabi Alonso. Given their current standing at the top of the Bundesliga table, it is likely that they will meet these conditions, delaying City’s potential acquisition of Wirtz until 2026.
City’s recent success in the transfer market and their ability to navigate Financial Fair Play regulations means they could realistically meet Leverkusen’s asking price for Wirtz. The club’s astute transfer dealings in recent years have put them in a strong position to make a club-record signing for the German midfielder. Therefore, despite potential competition from other clubs, City’s financial and strategic position makes them the favorites to secure Wirtz’s services.
