REAL MADRID
Bayern edge ahead of Real Madrid in the race for Florian Wirtz
While the numbers don’t add up at the Bernabéu, the Germans are willing to go all out for the Leverkusen star. Xabi is key to his future.
Florian Wirtz’s future remains one of the biggest unknowns in the transfer market. Although the Bayer Leverkusen star has a contract until 2027, his possible departure in 2025 has sparked interest from several of Europe’s most powerful clubs.
Among them, Real Madrid, who had been considered Bayern Munich’s main rival in the fight for the Germany international. But the Spanish giants have fallen off the pace according to The Athletic: Leverkusen are demanding more than 100 million euros (around 1.05 million dollars) for the 21-year-old striker - a figure that considerably complicates the Madrid’s aspirations.
Wirtz fee exceeds Madrid’s budget
But in spite of rumours that Real Madrid may have withdrawn from the race, their interest in Wirtz persists, especially considering that the player’s own wishes will also play an important role in where he moves next.
In addition to that, there is always the possibility that Xabi Alonso could return to his old club to take over the reins from Carlo Ancelotti next year. As Carletto’s successor, Xabi would be key in negotiations to land for Wirtz, who has been decisive for Leverkusen under the Basque coach. The only other obstacle would be Wirtz’s fee and whether the Spanish club would be willing to pay it.
Bayern’s plan to make space for Wirtz
Meanwhile, Bayern are not letting their guard down and plan to make a significant effort to unite Wirtz with his friend Jamal Musiala, forming the “Wusiala” duo that is causing so much talk in the German national team.
The plan of the always solvent Germans would involve offloading at least one of the squad’s top earners - such as Leon Goretzka, Serge Gnabry or Leroy Sané, in order to be able to bring in Wirtz and keep their books balanced.
However, despite the fact that the numbers do not add up a priori, Real Madrid will continue to keep a close eye on a player who is very popular at the White House.