Where will Florian Wirtz end up next season?
According to a report from kicker, Bayer Leverkusen is playing it extremely cool when it comes to Bayern Munich’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz.
Before we get to that, though, the German outlet is also reporting that Bayern Munich is worried about Real Madrid thrusting itself into the mix for Wirtz now that Xabi Alonso is reportedly headed there:
Indeed, until two or three days ago, there was considerable confidence in Munich that Wirtz’s offer would be forthcoming. But now, with Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso’s impending move to Real Madrid in mind, the record champions fear that the Royal Blues could interfere. The planned €100 million transfer of Real striker Rodrygo to Man City could form the basis for this.
Before Leverkusen’s match against BVB, Bayern didn’t want to push the issue any further, partly to protect the player in what could be his last home appearance as a Bayer player. Now they will intensify their fight for Wirtz, knowing that there won’t be a quick decision.
As for Bayer Leverkusen, the club is trying its best to keep a calm, public demeanor.
“What’s being reported in the media is one thing,” managing director Simon Rolfes told DAZN. “We have a very trusting relationship with Florian and his family. He’s a Bayer 04 player. We’re fighting to ensure that he remains that way next year.
“We have clear statements from the family. We’ve always spoken to each other so we know what each other’s thoughts are,” Rolfes explained to kicker on Sunday, “which is why we’re very relaxed.”
Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro echoed the sentiments from Rolfes.
“In the end, Florian is the important one, who has to decide what he wants and when he wants to take certain steps or not,” said Carro.
Interestingly, Bayer Leverkusen also believes that Bayern Munich has indulged in a “too much, too soon” approach with Wirtz and that it will be work against the Bavarians in the pursuit:
Leverkusen is confident that Munich will shoot itself in the foot with its media offensive against Wirtz. This could play into Bayer’s hands. The club, if it does so at all this summer, would prefer to sell Wirtz abroad rather than to a direct competitor. Rolfes even estimates the chances of Wirtz staying at “60:40.”
As expected, this one likely will not be coming to a conclusion any time soon.
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