The 22-year-old talent has been the apple of the eyes of the big wigs like Bayern Munich and Manchester City. This is surprising after a very strong 2019/20 season, including a successful half-year loan to Real Betis. The Bundesliga club reportedly value Wirtz at a whopping €150 million (in excess of £126 million). This high price tag ensures that any transfer will be a major financial commitment.
After his incredible performance last season, Wirtz has clearly established himself as one of the league’s brightest rising stars. He recorded nine goals in 24 appearances while on loan at Real Betis. He never stopped lighting it up at Bayer Leverkusen, scoring 10 goals and assisting 12 more in 25 starts. His contributions as a creative force with stature and guile on the ball helped lift the club to a surprise runners-up finish behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga.
Growing Interest from Top Clubs
The competition for Wirtz’s signature is fierce. Bayern Munich and Manchester City are reportedly interested in the young midfielder. At the same time, Manchester United made sure to kick him up onto their list of possible targets. As they prepare to lose Wirtz, Erik ten Hag’s club seems to be on the search of making a move themselves. Ten Hag was in charge when Manchester United signed Antony for more than £80 million in August 2022.
Wirtz has only known one senior club, where he’s been a regular fixture at Bayer Leverkusen since his 2020 breakthrough. On top of that, his excellent performance on the international stage enhances his appeal. He even scored the opener for Germany in last weekend’s Nations League semi-final against Portugal before the Germans bowed out 2-1. This combination of domestic and international success has made Wirtz one of the most desired players on the market.
The Future of Wirtz and Leverkusen’s Strategy
Real Betis are keen to see him return as well. Their current financial situation likely will prevent them from coming within sniffing distance of Bayer Leverkusen’s asking price. As the January transfer window closes, Leverkusen is bracing for all possibilities, including losing their prized offensive midfielder.
Considering this possibility, Bayer Leverkusen have started looking at possible Wirtz replacements in case the prodigy departs. Antony, now at Manchester United, is one of the players being mooted. His overall comfort level with Ten Hag’s tactical approach would surely make him an attractive option for the German club.
Financial Implications
The transfer market is always a gamble, and even more so with players of Wirtz’s valuation. The current British record transfer fee of £115 million (for Jack Grealish from Aston Villa to Manchester City in August 2021) is not necessarily relevant to Wirtz. Bayer Leverkusen’s reported asking price shows how far they believe in Wirtz as an important piece of business for both the immediately and longterm.
Leave a Reply