Florian Wirtz, the 21-year-old midfield sensation from Bayer Leverkusen, has become the focal point of a high-stakes transfer tussle between European giants Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
Florian Wirtz Transfer Saga: Manchester City and Bayern Munich Vie for Leverkusen Star
As the summer window approaches, both clubs are intensifying efforts to secure the services of the German international, whose creativity and vision have made him one of Europe’s most coveted talents.​
Manchester City, in particular, view Wirtz as a potential successor to Kevin De Bruyne, whose future at the Etihad remains uncertain amid injury concerns and contract expiry at season’s end.
Pep Guardiola is reportedly eager to integrate Wirtz into City’s midfield, with the club prepared to offer around €120 million to facilitate the move.
Wirtz’s versatility and attacking prowess align with Guardiola’s tactical philosophy, making him an ideal candidate to rejuvenate City’s creative core.
However, Bayern Munich are equally determined to bring Wirtz to the Allianz Arena.
Club officials, including Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, have publicly expressed admiration for Wirtz, labeling him “the best player in Germany.”
Bayern’s interest is not merely to weaken a Bundesliga rival but to bolster their own squad with a homegrown talent of exceptional caliber.
Despite reports suggesting a verbal agreement between Wirtz and Bayern, Bayer Leverkusen have categorically denied any such deal, emphasizing that Wirtz remains under contract until 2027 and is not for sale this summer.
Leverkusen are reportedly working on a contract extension that could include a release clause, potentially setting the stage for a future transfer while securing Wirtz’s immediate future.
The player’s own preferences add another layer of complexity. While Wirtz has expressed openness to a move abroad, particularly to a club like Manchester City under Guardiola’s tutelage, his strong ties to Germany and potential for continued development at Leverkusen may influence his decision .​
As the transfer window looms, the battle for Florian Wirtz’s signature promises to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the summer.
Both Manchester City and Bayern Munich have compelling cases, but Leverkusen’s firm stance and Wirtz’s own considerations will ultimately dictate the outcome of this high-profile pursuit.
