The summer transfer window may not be open just yet, but the rumour mill is already in overdrive — and the latest twist features German starlet Florian Wirtz, who has reportedly made a hush-hush visit to Manchester alongside his parents for a private meeting with Pep Guardiola and Manchester City officials.
Wirtz, widely regarded as one of the most gifted young midfielders in world football, is coming off a sensational campaign with Bayer Leverkusen, where he played a pivotal role in their unbeaten Bundesliga title win under Xabi Alonso. Still just 21, he’s already a senior international for Germany and is expected to be one of the standout names at this summer’s European Championship.
But with the eyes of the continent on him, it appears Manchester City may have stolen a march on their rivals — and the sighting of Wirtz and his family in the north-west this week has only added fuel to the fire.
Private Talks Reportedly Held at Discreet City Centre Location
According to sources close to the player, Wirtz and his parents flew into Manchester under the radar earlier this week. The purpose? To hold preliminary discussions with Pep Guardiola and City’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain about a potential move to the Etihad — either this summer or next.
The meeting is said to have taken place at a private location in the city centre, away from prying eyes. It is understood that no formal offer was made, but Guardiola is believed to be a huge admirer of the young German, and City are laying the groundwork for what could be a marquee signing in 2025 if not sooner.
Wirtz has long been on the radar of Europe’s elite, with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool all known to be tracking his progress. But City’s long-term planning and Guardiola’s track record of nurturing attacking midfielders may give them the edge in the race.
Leverkusen Reluctant to Sell — For Now
Leverkusen, fresh off their historic title-winning season, have no desire to part ways with their talisman. Club CEO Fernando Carro has previously stated that Wirtz will remain in Germany for “at least one more year.” However, that hasn’t stopped clubs from doing their homework, and City appear to be ahead of the curve.
The player himself has remained tight-lipped, focusing instead on preparing for the Euros, where he’s expected to play a key role for Germany on home soil.
But the trip to Manchester has raised eyebrows — and in the world of elite football, these things rarely happen by accident.
Whether City move for Wirtz this summer or play the long game, it’s clear that the Premier League champions are serious about securing the next generation of world-class talent — and they may already have their man in mind.
READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS: