Real Madrid and Manchester City cross paths in the Champions League, but they may also do so in next summer’s transfer market. At just 21 years of age, Florian Wirtz is shining at Bayer Leverkusen and is the object of desire for several European football ‘giants’. And no wonder, given the player’s numbers: in 34 games played so far, he has already scored 15 goals and made 12 assists.
A few weeks ago, there was talk of him agreeing a move to Real Madrid and even a date for his arrival. The German newspaper Bild reported that the player was ready to leave Leverkusen for Real Madrid in 2026. A few days later, however, the deal was complicated, or at least delayed. According to German journalist Christian Falk, the dream of Musiala and Wirtz is to play together and win the Champions League. Musiala is close to re-signing with Bayern and the German side are keen to sign the player. According to the journalist, the Bundesliga player’s arrival in Madrid could be delayed.
Now, Real Madrid are facing another setback in this long-awaited signing. City are set to raid Leverkusen next summer. According to Caughtoffside, the English giants are preparing a €200m bid for Wirtz and Frimpong. Guardiola is keen to continue rebuilding City and has both of Xabi Alonso’s players in his sights.
Wirtz advised not to sign with Real Madrid
Lothar Matthäus has weighed in on the interest shown by these three big names. The former Bayern Munich player, who is currently a pundit for Sky 90, has advised the German not to join Real Madrid: “If I could wish for anything, it would be for Florian Wirtz to come to Bayern. I have a feeling that Wirtz will stay at Leverkusen until the 2026 World Cup. I wouldn’t do that if I were him. Nor would I go to Real Madrid. He’s a young player and he can still learn a lot, especially if Alonso stays in Leverkusen. That’s why I don’t think Wirtz will leave Bayer 04 Leverkusen at the end of the season. I think it would be better for Wirtz and Musiala not to play together every day.
The footballer has a contract with Leverkusen until 2027. Matthäus believes he will remain at the BayArena at least until the next World Cup, which will be hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico. I have a feeling that Wirtz will stay with Leverkusen until the 2026 World Cup,” the former world champion added.