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Real Madrid, Manchester City 'interested in Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz'

By Carter White | 20 January 2024

Real Madrid, Man City 'interested in Florian Wirtz'

Real Madrid and Manchester City are reportedly keen on the signing of Bayer Leverkusen attacker Florian Wirtz, with the German attracting interest from Bayern Munich.

Real Madrid and Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen youngster Florian Wirtz.

The 20-year-old has been a regular fixture in Xabi Alonso's side this term, scoring five goals and providing seven assists in 17 Bundesliga appearances.

Leverkusen are having a strong campaign under the leadership of the former Liverpool and Real Madrid player, sitting first in the German top flight ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich.

Wirtz has become a key part of Germany's squad over the past few years, making 14 appearances on the international stage since his debut in March 2021.

According to Sport Bild, Real Madrid and Manchester City are keen on recruiting Wirtz in the near future, as both sides look to claim further successes domestically and in the Champions League.

Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz celebrates scoring their first goal on September 21, 2023 © Reuters

The report claims that Leverkusen are demanding a fee of around €130m (£111.6m) for their German attacker, rising closer to €150m (£128.8m) with various add-ons.

It is understood that Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich are also interested in Wirtz, meaning that a real battle could be ahead for the player's long-term services.

The FC Koln academy product has a contract at the BayArena until the summer of 2027, so Leverkusen are at no risk of losing the forward for cheap anytime soon.

Wirtz will reportedly remain at the German title challengers until 2025 at least, although a move away earlier cannot be ruled out.

Germany midfielder Florian Wirtz passes the ball against the United States men's national team on October 14, 2023 © Reuters

It was reported last month that Thomas Tuchel's side were ahead of their Premier League and La Liga counterparts in the hotly-contested race for the 20-year-old.

However, it is understood that a move abroad may not be desired by Wirtz, handing the Bavarians a massive boost in the hunt for his services in the coming transfer windows.

Since Karim Benzema secured a switch to the riches of the Saudi Pro League, Carlo Ancelotti's side have relied on the goalscoring talents of Jude Bellingham, with the midfielder netting 13 times in La Liga - six more than any other teammate.

Trailing surprise package Girona at the summit of the league standings, Los Blancos will aim to take top spot when they face Almeria at the Bernabeu on Sunday afternoon.