Player ‘perfect’ for Manchester City – Beating City to signing would be very difficult indeed

Manchester City are one of the clubs rivalling Real Madrid in the race for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, according to Monday’s edition of AS.

The attacking midfielder continues to impress for the Bundesliga side, managing six goals and an assist from 10 games this season.

His fine displays have attracted interest from Manchester City, Los Blancos, Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

The report mainly focuses on Real Madrid, who have identified the 21-year-old as an ideal candidate to replace 39-year-old Luka Modrić. Their CEO, José Ángel Sánchez, and chief scout, Juni Calafat are leading the transfer pursuit.

His father, Hans-Joachim Wirtz, represents the Leverkusen star, and both know about the Champions League winners’ interest. They have identified the Germany international as the priority target for next season.

Real Madrid are well aware that they will face ‘tough competition’ from others, ‘especially Manchester City’. The report claims the Premier League winners see Wirtz as a ‘perfect’ replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who could compliment İlkay Gündoğan in midfield.

Bayern are dreaming about adding the young German star to their squad. Barcelona also keen but could struggle financially to secure his services.

AS claim the German champions won’t let him leave for less than €150m. Wirtz’s contract lasts until 2027 and that could see the interested parties try and lower the price for next summer.