Real Madrid have opened talks with Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz as they look to beat Manchester City and Bayern Munich to signing him.
- Wirtz admired by many clubs
- Leverkusen reluctant to sell to Bayern
- Madrid leading foreign pursuers
WHAT HAPPENED?
The attacking midfielder played a key role in securing Bayer Leverkusen their first-ever Bundesliga title last season, as Xabi Alonso's side blew away the competition and won the league by a whopping 17 points. Wirtz has attracted plenty of attention since and, according to Sky Sports' Florian Plettenberg, talks between the Germany international and Spanish suitors Madrid have already taken place.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alonso's team secured their historic title win off the back of some truly remarkable performances from Wirtz. It's no surprise that a huge price tag has been slapped on the 21-year-old, with rumours circulating in October that the Bundesliga champions would be hoping to receive around €150 million (£126m/$166m) in exchange for their star man.
DID YOU KNOW?
While Madrid have not started negotiations with Leverkusen, City have been informed of the European champions' approach. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl is said to already have contacted Wirtz, too, but Leverkusen would prefer he went to another country because they do not want to sell him to their domestic rivals. While the Bundesliga champions still hope he will sign a contract extension, a transfer next summer seems more likely.
WHAT NEXT FOR WIRTZ?
City are reportedly going all out to sign the young Bundesliga star, however, with Kevin De Bruyne's rumoured departure ramping up the pressure for Pep Guardiola's side to build for the future. For now, Wirtz remains at Leverkusen and the club will be hoping he can help them challenge again for the league title.
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