Manchester City have reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz as a prime target for the upcoming transfer window.
With Kevin De Bruyne, now 33, confirmed to be leaving the club, City view Wirtz as a natural successor in the attacking midfield role.
Wirtz, 22, has enjoyed a stellar season in Germany, scoring 16 goals and assisting 13 more in 43 appearances. His creative spark and attacking intelligence were also pivotal in Leverkusen’s historic, unbeaten domestic double last season.
For months, Wirtz had remained silent on speculation linking him with a move away from Leverkusen, but he has now broken that stance.
“I’m pretty lucky that I have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and that I can now play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe,” he told Sports Illustrated Deutschland.
“I have a lot of respect for the lads here in Leverkusen who come from South America or Africa, for example, and leave their families and surroundings behind for their careers.
“It definitely appeals to me to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience something new.
“I know football locker rooms well enough and I’m convinced that I would quickly settle in wherever I go.”
Manchester City are reportedly willing to meet Leverkusen’s £150 million asking price for the German international.
The move would mark a statement of intent as City look to refresh a squad that has shown signs of ageing and is currently battling for Champions League qualification rather than the Premier League crown.
With manager Pep Guardiola planning changes this summer, Wirtz is believed to be central to the club’s vision for the future.
