PEP GUARDIOLA 'CHOOSES' KEVIN DE BRUYNE'S HEIR! MAN CITY ACCELERATE FLORIAN WIRTZ PURSUIT AS BAYER LEVERKUSEN STAR TOPS WISHLIST
Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen sensation Florian Wirtz, with Pep Guardiola identifying the German wonderkid as the ideal successor to Kevin De Bruyne.
With De Bruyne expected to leave the Etihad this summer after a glittering spell at the club, Guardiola is eager to future-proof his midfield — and Wirtz is firmly at the top of his shortlist.
👑 The Next De Bruyne?
Wirtz, just 20, has dazzled under Xabi Alonso this season, playing a key role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga run and deep European campaign. His flair, vision, and goal contributions have drawn comparisons to some of the game's elite playmakers — and Guardiola is reportedly convinced he can evolve into a world-class creative force.
“Pep sees Wirtz as a generational talent who can slot seamlessly into City’s style,” a source close to the club claimed.
🔍 Why Wirtz?
Elite Output: Double digits in both goals and assists this season
Tactical Fit: Equally comfortable as a No. 10 or advanced No. 8
Mature Beyond Years: Composure and football IQ far beyond his age
💰 Transfer Details
Contract: Runs until 2027 at Leverkusen
Valuation: Expected to cost between £85–100 million
Competition: Bayern, Barcelona, and Real Madrid also tracking him
City are prepared to move swiftly, hoping to wrap up talks before Euro 2024, where Wirtz is set to star for Germany.
⚠️ De Bruyne’s Departure Looms
De Bruyne, 33, has hinted at an emotional farewell after nine trophy-laden years. Reports suggest his exit is being driven by the club rather than personal choice, with Guardiola already preparing to usher in the next generation.
🧠 Guardiola's Vision
Wirtz would join a new-look midfield featuring Phil Foden and Rodri — a trio designed for sustained success. City believe his arrival could mark the beginning of another dominant cycle, mirroring the impact De Bruyne made when he joined in 2015.
🔵 What’s Next?
Initial talks with Wirtz’s representatives are believed to be underway, with City hopeful of convincing him that the Premier League — and Guardiola’s guidance — is the perfect platform for his next step.
One era is closing, but another may be beginning. Florian Wirtz could soon be the heartbeat of Manchester City’s future.
.webp)
.jpg)
.jpg)
0 Comments