Real Madrid have initiated talks with Bayer Leverkusen’s highly coveted attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, edging ahead of Manchester City and Bayern Munich in the race for his signature.
Wirtz, 21, played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title triumph last season, sparking intense interest from top European clubs. According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Madrid have already opened negotiations with the Germany international.
Leverkusen, however, are reluctant to sell Wirtz to Bayern, their domestic rivals, and would prefer a foreign transfer. The Bundesliga champions have slapped a hefty price tag of around €150 million (£126m/$166m) on their star player.
While Madrid have yet to negotiate with Leverkusen, City have been informed of the Spanish giants’ approach. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl has also contacted Wirtz, but Leverkusen remain keen on retaining their key player or selling him abroad.
With Kevin De Bruyne’s potential departure intensifying City’s need for a top-class midfielder, Pep Guardiola’s side are reportedly going all out to sign Wirtz. For now, the young Bundesliga star remains at Leverkusen, where he will be crucial to the team’s title defence.
As the transfer battle heats up, Wirtz’s future hangs in the balance, with Madrid currently leading the chase for his signature.
Image Credit: Getty Images Sport
One Comment