Bayer Leverkusen Star Targeted by Manchester City in Big-Money Move

Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz is at the centre of growing transfer speculation, with Manchester City ready to make a substantial offer for the German international this summer.

Bayer Leverkusen could be preparing to fend off a major approach from Manchester City, who have made Florian Wirtz their priority signing ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.

Following Kevin De Bruyne’s confirmed departure from the Etihad Stadium at the end of his contract on 30 June, the Premier League champions have turned their focus firmly towards securing the services of Leverkusen’s attacking sensation.

As first reported by Football Insider on 19 April, Wirtz tops City’s wish list to replace De Bruyne, while German publication Bild claimed on 16 April that manager Pep Guardiola has personally outlined his vision to the 21-year-old.

High Price Tag Could Benefit Leverkusen

It is understood that Leverkusen have set a valuation of €150million (£129million) for Wirtz, a figure that could price out some of Europe’s heavyweight suitors, including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson believes the steep asking price could actually play into City’s hands. He exclusively told Football Insider:

“The impression I get is that they see Wirtz as that kind of headline signing to replace Kevin De Bruyne, and they recognise that to do that deal is going to cost what it costs.

“Arsenal’s deal for Rice cost what it cost, like all of those kinds of very major signings. He’s got a long contract at Leverkusen, so there’s no possibility that he’s going to be in some kind of Real Madrid-style free deal. If they want him, that’s the price.”

Borson continued:

“I think in some ways City might quite like the fact that that is the price because it pretty much rules out Real Madrid from the situation, and it possibly also rules out Bayern Munich as well.

“I think Bayern Munich would be the most natural place for him to go. We know Bayern do like to sign where they can the best player in Germany and I think they would like to do the deal, but they’re also trying to bring the wage bill down a little bit.

“They have spent heavily in the last couple of years, so in some ways, I think it could be an advantage for City. But I do think it might not be €150million, it could be €125million (£107million) or something. But I would think it’s a £100million deal.

“Then the salary, I think they’re probably looking at the salary side of things and going, De Bruyne is going, that will save somewhere in the order of £20-25million a year on wages.

“If we can buy a player who’s going to be the next headline player for the next five to 10 years, then that’s what we’ll do. They can certainly afford it on a PSR basis.”

Wirtz’s Stellar Season Draws Admiration

Wirtz has been instrumental for Leverkusen this campaign, registering an impressive 15 goals and 13 assists across 40 appearances in all competitions. His form has seen him linked with a host of top European clubs, but Leverkusen remain hopeful of retaining their prized asset.

Site Opinion

It is no surprise that Florian Wirtz is attracting interest from the very top clubs in Europe. His outstanding technical ability, combined with his maturity and versatility, make him one of the most exciting prospects in world football. Bayer Leverkusen’s decision to set a high asking price is a clear signal of his importance to their long-term ambitions, particularly as they look to challenge domestically and in Europe.

However, with Manchester City’s financial muscle and the urgent need to fill the gap left by Kevin De Bruyne, Leverkusen will face a fierce battle to keep hold of Wirtz. Should City meet the asking price, the German side may find it difficult to resist, but they must ensure that any departure strengthens their hand to invest wisely in future talents.