Florian Wirtz has the football world at his feet—and some of Europe’s biggest clubs waiting in line. But for all the swirling headlines and transfer chatter, the 22-year-old’s next move remains anything but settled.
Recent reports have all but linked him to Bayern Munich. German tabloids, national broadcasters and a chorus of insiders say it’s a done deal. But according to Bayer Leverkusen’s chief executive, that simply isn’t true.
“I know it’s not true, and it’s annoying when you read reports that aren’t true,” Fernando Carro told RTL this week. “Bayern can make an offer at any time, and then we have to deal with it. But at the moment, we don’t have an offer from any club.”
Carro’s comments highlight what has become a complicated and unusually public tug-of-war over one of the most sought-after talents in European football.
Wirtz, a creative midfielder who helped lead Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title last season, is being watched closely by Manchester City and Real Madrid. City see him as the long-term heir to Kevin De Bruyne. Madrid may view him as part of Xabi Alonso’s vision—should their former player, and now Leverkusen manager, move to Spain.
Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, echoed Carro’s caution but admitted the interest is real. “The chances are 60/40 that Florian will stay,” Rolfes said. “He’s under contract here, and we’re working hard to make sure he stays. But many top clubs are interested. That’s been the case for a while now.”
And with good reason.
Wirtz isn’t just a promising talent—he’s already proven himself. In the 2023–24 season, he scored 11 goals and registered 12 assists in 32 league matches. He followed that with 10 goals and 13 assists in 30 Bundesliga appearances this year. He’s also been a standout in Europe, scoring six times in the Champions League.
His current market value is €140 million, according to Transfermarkt. But Leverkusen are expected to hold out for at least €150 million—an amount that would break the Bundesliga transfer record.
That price could be a sticking point for Bayern, especially as they weigh squad rebuilding costs elsewhere. Manchester City, bankrolled by Abu Dhabi, could meet the fee. But there’s a catch: City doesn’t pay players more than Pep Guardiola, and Wirtz may earn less there than he would in Bavaria.
What’s more, sources close to the player suggest he isn’t especially eager to move to England. One concern: Guardiola’s long-term future. The Spaniard has pushed back on talk of leaving, but the uncertainty lingers. And for a young star plotting his next five years, that kind of fog matters.
Then there’s Real Madrid. Spain reportedly holds greater appeal for Wirtz personally. But Madrid’s interest, while real, is not yet active. Much could hinge on whether they part ways with Rodrygo or another attacking player this summer.
Behind the scenes, family matters may also influence the final decision. Wirtz’s father, who acts as his agent, is a Bayern fan with a long-standing relationship with club icon Uli Hoeneß. According to sources close to the Munich club, this connection gives Bayern quiet confidence—even if there’s no deal in place.
Still, Leverkusen would prefer to sell to a foreign club. Bayern are direct rivals, and losing their best player to them would sting far more than a move abroad.
Wirtz has remained quiet publicly. But in a recent interview, he spoke warmly of his friendship with Bayern’s Jamal Musiala, hinting that the idea of playing together isn’t unwelcome.
For now, though, Wirtz remains a Leverkusen player. No formal offers have been lodged. No contracts signed. Only noise—and plenty of it.
The window opens soon. Until then, Europe’s giants wait. So does Wirtz.
