Manchester City, Bayern Munich Eye Florian Wirtz as Potential Transfer Target
Manchester City has reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz as a potential transfer target, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The English champions, led by Pep Guardiola, are said to be keen on bolstering their midfield with the highly-rated attacking midfielder as they prepare for life after Kevin De Bruyne.
With De Bruyne’s contract expiring in the summer and his future uncertain, Manchester City is keen to rejuvenate their squad and strengthen their midfield. The 33-year-old Belgian has been a key figure for the club since joining in 2015, but his departure could leave a significant void.
Wirtz, 21, has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe during his time at Leverkusen. The Germany international has impressed with his creativity, technical ability, and eye for goal, contributing nine goals and nine assists in 22 Bundesliga appearances this season.
The Daily Mail suggests that Manchester City’s interest in Wirtz stems from their desire to add a player of his quality and potential to their squad. Wirtz’s versatility, which allows him to play as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or even out wide, would make him a valuable asset for Guardiola.
However, any potential move for Wirtz would likely come at a significant cost. The German is contracted to Leverkusen until the summer of 2027, and his market value is estimated to be well over €100 million.
Bayern Munich also linked with Wirtz
Manchester City is not the only club said to be interested in Wirtz. Bayern Munich has also been repeatedly linked with the midfielder, and it is easy to see why. Wirtz is a player who could fit seamlessly into the German champions’ attacking, possession-based style of play.
However, Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Max Eberl, recently played down any speculation regarding Wirtz, stating that the club is currently focused on achieving its objectives and that a move for Wirtz is not being actively pursued at this time.
Wirtz’s future remains uncertain
Despite the interest from Manchester City and Bayern Munich, Wirtz’s future remains uncertain. The midfielder has expressed his happiness at Leverkusen and has stated that he is not thinking about a move away for the time being.
However, it is widely expected that Wirtz will eventually make the step up to a bigger club, and if Manchester City or Bayern Munich makes a formal approach, it could be difficult for him to turn down.
For now, Wirtz will be keen to continue his impressive form for Leverkusen and help the club achieve its goals in the Bundesliga and Europa League. Whether he remains at the BayArena beyond the summer remains to be seen, but it is clear that he is a player in high demand.
