Manchester City are preparing for a major rebuild in the upcoming summer transfer window following a disappointing 2024–25 campaign that saw the team fall short of its season goals. Now, the Premier League giants are reportedly looking to hijack Bayern Munich’s pursuit of a $150 million star.
Rodri’s long-term injury was a turning point in City’s season, coinciding with their collapse in the Premier League title race and an early Champions League exit in the playoff stage. As Pep Guardiola looks to reshape his squad, the club is targeting one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
According to Sport Bild journalist Christian Falk, Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement with Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. Though Bayern Munich had been the frontrunner for his signature, the English side is now making a strong push to secure the midfielder for themselves.
City manager Pep Guardiola has reportedly played a hands-on role in the pursuit, holding several discussions with Wirtz and positioning him as a future offensive leader at the club—especially with Kevin De Bruyne’s expected departure. Reports also claim that Wirtz traveled to England recently to meet with City officials and advance negotiations.
Wirtz has been a breakout star under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen. After helping the club win its first Bundesliga title, he recorded 16 goals and 15 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions, attracting interest from Europe’s elite. Now, Bayern and City are locked in a transfer battle ahead of the 2025–26 season.
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The 22-year-old Wirtz is under contract with Leverkusen through June 2027 and was reportedly in talks to extend his deal during the 2024–25 season. However, Alonso’s expected departure and mounting pressure from top clubs have shifted the landscape—putting Bayern in pole position, at least until City’s involvement.
According to Bild, Bayern Munich are preparing a €100 million offer for Wirtz, but that falls short of Bayer Leverkusen’s valuation. The Bundesliga champions are said to be holding firm at a €150 million price tag, creating a significant gap between the offer and the asking price.
With Manchester City entering the race, it will be difficult for Bayern to compete financially. The German giants are currently undergoing budget cuts, while City remain one of the world’s most powerful clubs economically. Leverkusen now have leverage to drive up the bidding, with multiple top-tier options on the table.
