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Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz is reportedly set on a move to Bayern Munich, despite drawing significant interest from top clubs across Europe, according to German outlet Bild.
The 22-year-old midfielder has been a standout performer for Xabi Alonso’s side this season, registering 10 goals and 12 assists in 29 Bundesliga appearances. After resisting offers last summer to remain at Leverkusen and compete in the Champions League, speculation over his future is expected to intensify once again in the upcoming transfer window.
Premier League heavyweights Arsenal and Manchester City have both been linked with the German international, with City reportedly eyeing Wirtz as a potential successor to Kevin De Bruyne. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are also believed to be monitoring the playmaker, who remains under contract with Leverkusen until 2027.
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However, Bild claims that Wirtz has made Bayern Munich his preferred destination and is prepared to reject any overtures from abroad, at least for now. The report suggests that the midfielder does not view Manchester City as a “serious option” at this stage in his career, though a move outside Germany could be on the cards later down the line.
Florian Wirtz (Image credit: Getty Images)The news comes as a major boost for Bayern, who recently clinched the Bundesliga title. Club legend and board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge previously confirmed the club’s strong interest in the Leverkusen midfielder.
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“[Uli] Hoeness said that Wirtz is his dream – and that was putting it politely,” Rummenigge told AZ. “Everyone at FC Bayern agrees that he is exactly the player we want to sign. Not to weaken Leverkusen, but to strengthen us. Wirtz is the best player in Germany.”
He added: “It’s not the market value that’s important, but the amount that would ultimately have to be paid in a transfer. That will undoubtedly be difficult because Wirtz is a very sought-after player.”
Wirtz’s potential departure could cap off a turbulent summer for Bayer Leverkusen, with head coach Xabi Alonso also attracting serious interest. The Spaniard has been heavily linked with the Real Madrid job, which is expected to become vacant at the end of the season.
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