Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of Florian Wirtz and believe they have a crucial advantage in the race to sign the Bayer Leverkusen star, according to GIVEMESPORT.
The 21-year-old is seen as an ideal long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, but competition is fierce, with Bayern Munich also keen. City believe Leverkusen might be reluctant to sell their brightest talent to their biggest domestic rival, potentially making a move to the Premier League more appealing.
Wirtz is expected to cost around £100m, and while Bayern have long admired him, City have kept in contact with the player’s camp since last summer. Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has called Wirtz a ‘genius,’ and although Wirtz has not made a decision, the opportunity to work with Pep Guardiola could be a key factor in City’s favour.
Real Madrid and Liverpool are also reportedly interested, but City are confident they can make a compelling offer if Wirtz decides to leave Germany. Leverkusen are still hopeful he might renew his contract, but if they opt to sell, City believe they will be well-placed in the conversation.