Could there be a shocking transfer move on the horizon?
In his Daily Briefing column, Sport Bild journalist Christian Falk detailed how Manchester City might actually have an edge over Bayern Munich for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz:
Manchester City have an advantage in the race for Florian Wirtz. Bayern are still optimistic that they have a good chance for Wirtz. That said, they won’t make a move for him this summer; they’ve already decided they’ll go for him in 2026. It’s also the same case with Real Madrid. Everyone thinks he’s going to sign a new contract at Bayer Leverkusen, in the meantime, with a release clause for 2026.
However, there’s one player in the market, and this is Manchester City, who are still keen to sign Wirtz this summer. We heard about some interesting movement from Giovanni Branchini, an agent who has worked with Bayern Munich in the past. He’s now involved in the deal and is trying to convince Wirtz to sign for City on behalf of the incumbent Premier League champions. So that’s an advantage for the English club at the moment.
Inside Germany, we think it will take one year more, as Florian Wirtz is feeling comfortable at Leverkusen, not to mention, if Xabi Alonso stays another season, this could also influence his decision-making. Nonetheless, City continue to apply pressure!
With reports dropping last Friday that Bayern Munich was prepared to do whatever is necessary in attempting to get Wirtz, it would seem that there could be an arms race for Wirtz if he decides to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
Some of that will depend on what happens with Alonso. If the coach stays, it is conceivable that Wirtz would consider a longer time with Die Werkself.
