Real Madrid under pressure as Manchester City tighten grip on summer transfer priority | OneFootball

According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City have emerged as the favourites to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz next summer, edging out competitors like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool.

The 21-year-old German midfielder has been in sensational form, capturing the attention of Europe’s elite clubs with his exceptional skills and game intelligence.

Wirtz has been a standout performer for Bayer Leverkusen, but it seems the club’s ambitions no longer align with his personal goals. As a result, the young playmaker is expected to seek a move to a top club next summer.

While several clubs are keen on his signature, Manchester City appear to be leading the race. Pep Guardiola’s contract renewal has given the club a solid foundation to push for key signings, and the manager is reportedly eager to have Wirtz in his squad.

Man City are willing  to splash

Bayern Munich, one of Wirtz’s admirers, are willing to shell out €100 million to keep him in the Bundesliga. However, Manchester City’s sporting directors are said to have taken proactive steps to convince the midfielder to join the Premier League.

Manchester City are leading the race to sign Florian Wirtz. (Photo by Ronny Hartmann/Getty Images)

Guardiola views Wirtz as a generational talent who could seamlessly integrate into City’s already world-class setup, competing alongside the best players of his era.

While the Citizens are in pole position, with their willingness to offer £100 million for the player, the report also highlights Bayern Munich’s persistent efforts to sway Wirtz’s camp.

Then there are Bayern Munich

The Bavarian giants are making a strong case for the player to remain in Germany, where he is widely regarded as one of the Bundesliga’s finest talents.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid could become a serious contender if there are changes in their coaching staff, as a revamped project at the Santiago Bernabeu might attract the young star.

The battle for Wirtz’s signature promises to be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the upcoming window, with Manchester City currently holding a slight edge over their rivals.