In the fast-paced world of football, few stories have gripped the European transfer scene in 2025 quite like that of Florian Wirtz. The 20-year-old German sensation has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in world football, following a season that will be remembered as both historic and transformative—not just for Wirtz himself, but for his club, Bayer Leverkusen.
The young playmaker’s meteoric rise has put him at the center of a tug-of-war between two European heavyweights: Manchester City and Bayern Munich. As interest intensifies and the summer transfer window approaches, Wirtz now faces a monumental decision—stay with the club that nurtured his talent or move to a footballing powerhouse and embrace a new challenge.
Wirtz has been the heartbeat of a Bayer Leverkusen side that shocked the Bundesliga world. Under the tactical leadership of former Spanish international Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen claimed their first-ever Bundesliga title in stunning fashion, ending Bayern Munich’s decade-long domestic dominance.
Beyond the league triumph, Leverkusen also reached the finals of the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) and the UEFA Europa League, with Wirtz playing a pivotal role in both campaigns. His stats alone are staggering: 18 goals and 20 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions. But numbers only tell part of the story. It’s the way Wirtz plays—with composure, flair, and intelligence beyond his years—that has scouts, managers, and fans buzzing with excitement. Even an ankle injury midway through the campaign couldn’t slow him down. Wirtz bounced back to continue dazzling in midfield, showing a mental toughness that has only increased his value in the eyes of Europe’s top clubs
Manchester City and Bayern Munich have emerged as the two frontrunners in the race to sign Wirtz. Real Madrid, once considered a leading contender, have reportedly cooled their interest, focusing instead on other long-term targets.
For City, the timing could not be more critical. With club legend Kevin De Bruyne set to leave the Etihad at the end of the season, City are looking for a generational talent to fill his shoes. The Belgian maestro has been instrumental in Pep Guardiola’s era of dominance, and replacing him is no easy task
Pep Guardiola, known for developing elite midfielders, reportedly sees Wirtz as the ideal successor to De Bruyne. With the ability to dictate tempo, break lines with incisive passes, and contribute significantly in the final third, Wirtz fits the mold of a Guardiola midfielder. His high football IQ, positional awareness, and fearless attitude make him a dream prospect for City’s fluid and possession-based style of play.
Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has confirmed that Manchester City are prepared to move quickly. Internal talks at the Etihad suggest the club has “everything prepared” for a formal approach. If Wirtz decides to move, City are ready to submit an offer exceeding £109 million (€130 million), which would make him one of the most expensive German players in football history.
Bayern, however, are not backing down. The Bavarian giants have long had a policy of securing Germany’s top talent, and Wirtz is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the nation’s next generation. With Thomas Müller in the twilight of his career, Bayern see Wirtz as a natural heir to the legendary attacking midfielder.
Unlike City, Bayern offer Wirtz the opportunity to remain in familiar surroundings. He would be joining a club with domestic dominance, Champions League ambitions, and a German core—one that could include Jamal Musiala, Joshua Kimmich, and Leroy Sané. Bayern’s pitch to Wirtz is about legacy, national pride, and continued development in an environment tailored to his success.
Reports suggest Bayern’s directors are personally involved in the discussions, hoping to persuade Wirtz and his representatives that staying in Germany is the right move. They also hope to capitalize on his strong connection with fellow internationals and his deep understanding of the Bundesliga
Despite the looming interest from Europe’s elite, Bayer Leverkusen are not ready to part ways with their brightest star. In fact, the club has already drawn up a new contract proposal that would extend Wirtz’s stay until at least 2028. This proposed deal reportedly includes a structured release clause set to become active in 2026—a strategic move that would give Wirtz a clear pathway to a future transfer while ensuring Leverkusen benefit financially.
Club sources indicate that sporting director Simon Rolfes and manager Xabi Alonso are united in their desire to keep Wirtz. Alonso, in particular, has formed a strong bond with the player, and his future at Leverkusen could be a decisive factor. Should Alonso remain beyond the current season, Wirtz may be more inclined to postpone a big-money move and continue developing under his mentorship.
The club’s determination is clear. Having already proven they can compete with Germany’s best, Leverkusen want to build a dynasty—and they believe Wirtz is central to that vision.
Back at Manchester City, the shadow of Kevin De Bruyne looms large. The 33-year-old’s time in the Premier League appears to be winding down. With his contract expiring and interest from Major League Soccer clubs—particularly San Diego FC—gaining traction, the Belgian’s departure seems imminent.
City’s transition plan involves more than just replacing a player; it’s about reshaping their midfield identity for the next decade. Guardiola’s admiration for Wirtz is no secret. The City boss believes Wirtz can thrive in the Premier League, just as De Bruyne did, and sees him as a long-term project with immediate impact potential.
If Wirtz were to join City, he would be entering an environment built for his growth. Surrounded by world-class players, elite training facilities, and one of the most innovative managers in football history, the German starlet could become the centerpiece of City’s post-De Bruyne era
For Wirtz, the coming weeks are not just about contracts and money—they’re about legacy, timing, and ambition. At 20, he already has the world at his feet. The wrong move could stall his development; the right one could elevate him into superstardom.
Staying at Leverkusen would signal loyalty and belief in a project that has already delivered silverware. It would give Wirtz more time to grow, refine his skills, and leave as a legend—on his terms.
Joining Bayern Munich would keep him in Germany, offering a familiar environment with elite expectations and the chance to lead the country’s biggest club into a new era. Moving to Manchester City would be the boldest choice. It would mean entering one of the most competitive leagues in the world, adapting to a new culture and system—but also learning under Guardiola and being part of a global powerhouse.
From a financial perspective, the battle is equally intense. Leverkusen are expected to demand at least €120–130 million for their prized asset, and that fee could rise depending on how the situation unfolds. Manchester City have the resources to meet that valuation without hesitation. Bayern, while more conservative in spending, are reportedly prepared to break club records to secure Wirtz.
The player’s agency has remained tight-lipped, but insiders suggest the Wirtz camp is carefully weighing all options, with family and advisors heavily involved in the discussions
Wirtz’s next move won’t just affect his career—it will shape the future of three clubs:
As of now, Wirtz has not made a final decision. All sides are waiting. City have their bid prepared, Bayern have made their intentions clear, and Leverkusen are holding on with everything they’ve got.
