Manchester City and Real Madrid to meet with agents of Florian Wirtz – reports

A major transfer tug-of-war is on the horizon as European powerhouses Manchester City and Real Madrid reportedly gear up to meet with the representatives of Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield sensation, Florian Wirtz.

According to reports from transfer expert Ekrem Konur, the two clubs are ramping up their interest in the 21-year-old German international, whose performances this season have captured the attention of scouts across Europe. With each passing game, Wirtz continues to elevate his profile, playing a vital role in Bayer Leverkusen’s stunning domestic and European campaign under Xabi Alonso.

Manchester City’s interest in Wirtz dates back to the January transfer window, when the Premier League champions attempted to make initial moves to secure the midfielder’s services. However, Bayer Leverkusen made it clear that Wirtz was untouchable mid-season, forcing City to postpone their plans.

Pep Guardiola reportedly views Wirtz as an ideal long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who, although still crucial, has entered the twilight years of his career. Wirtz’s intelligence on the ball, positional awareness, and eye for goal make him a tailor-made fit for Guardiola’s high-octane, possession-based system.

Meanwhile, over in Spain, Real Madrid are also keenly monitoring Wirtz’s situation. With Luka Modric expected to part ways with the club at the end of the season, the Spanish giants are exploring dynamic midfield options to complement their already formidable engine room of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni.

Sources close to the Bernabéu indicate that Madrid has already opened dialogue with Wirtz’s camp. Florentino Pérez is reportedly eager to bring in a player who not only fits the club’s long-standing Galáctico model but also aligns with their new focus on building a younger, more sustainable core.

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso—who ironically has links to both City and Madrid from his playing days—is well aware of the growing interest in his star man. Speaking recently, Alonso admitted that while Wirtz remains committed to the club, he is also ambitious and open to exploring opportunities at the highest level in the future.

Sporting director Simon Rolfes reinforced the club’s stance by stating that Bayer would do everything possible to keep Wirtz until at least the summer of 2025. However, in the unpredictable world of football, such guarantees are often short-lived when elite clubs begin circling with lucrative offers and project promises.

What makes Wirtz even more appealing is his versatility. He operates primarily as an attacking midfielder but is just as effective in wide areas or deeper roles. His ability to link play, break lines, and contribute goals has made him one of the most exciting young prospects in European football.

Statistically, Wirtz has had a breakout season. In 2024 alone, he has registered double-digit goals and assists across all competitions, consistently ranking among the Bundesliga’s best in key passes, dribbles completed, and chances created.

City and Madrid aren’t the only clubs watching. Bayern Munich and Liverpool have also expressed interest, although the German international may be more tempted by a move abroad, especially given the allure of playing under Pep Guardiola or becoming part of Madrid’s next-generation dynasty.

The timing of the meetings with his agents is strategic. With the summer transfer window fast approaching, clubs are trying to establish relationships early and lay the groundwork before any official bidding war begins.

While no deal is imminent, the fact that both Real Madrid and Manchester City are actively meeting with Wirtz’s agents signals how serious they are about securing one of Europe’s most coveted midfielders.

For Leverkusen, keeping Wirtz will be vital not only for their domestic ambitions but also for their image as a club capable of developing and retaining top talent. However, the lure of Madrid’s legacy or the tactical brilliance of Guardiola could prove irresistible.

Should Wirtz decide to leave, the financial windfall for Leverkusen could be massive, with reports suggesting any deal could be worth over €100 million—especially if bidding intensifies between Europe’s elite.

Fans of both clubs are already speculating about how Wirtz would fit into their respective systems. At Madrid, he could be the creative brain in a midfield trio alongside Bellingham and Valverde. At City, he may inherit the De Bruyne mantle, orchestrating attacks from central areas or drifting wide in Guardiola’s fluid setup.

Either way, Florian Wirtz is on the verge of a career-defining decision, and the football world is watching closely. The coming months promise drama, negotiations, and possibly one of the blockbuster signings of 2025.

Stay tuned—this saga is just getting started.