Report gives latest insight into the battle for Florian Wirtz's signature
Bayern Munich will not make an offer for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz this summer, according to Sport Bild.
Paying a transfer fee of more than €100 million for the 21-year-old is currently not feasible for the Bavarians, who are currently focused on discussing contract extensions for a number of prominent players.
Manuel Neuer and Alphonso Davies have already been given new contracts, but the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Leroy Sané and Thomas Muller are out of contract this summer, while extending Jamal Musiala's deal beyond 2026 remains a high priority.
"Our sporting management team, led by Max Eberl and Christoph Freund, is working on contract extensions and on the rebuilding of the team. Once all this has been realized, we will consider what is necessary and possible in the summer," FC Bayern president Herbert Hainer told Sport Bild.
“We don't have a cash cow in the cellar where ducats come out every day. We have always been characterized by the fact that we work sensibly. In view of the rising salaries and transfer fees throughout Europe, this is becoming increasingly difficult.”
He added that the aim is to “keep salaries at the current level - or reduce them where possible.”
Could Wirtz end up at Manchester City?
Manchester City currently appear to have the most concrete interest in Wirtz, with the 21-year-old a top target for manager Pep Guardiola.
Although Wirtz is said to be close to agreeing a new deal with Leverkusen, which would see his contract extended from 2027 to 2028, the Citizens haven't given up on a summer transfer.
Wirtz and Leverkusen are reportedly discussing including a release clause of €125 million in the new deal, but it won't be active until the summer of 2026.
The question is whether Manchester City can be patient until then - and whether Wirtz wants to make the move to the Etihad Stadium at all.
The two main alternatives appear to be Bayern Munich, who may be more willing to pay his transfer fee in 2026, and Real Madrid.
