Bayern Munich have made Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz the club’s top transfer target for next summer.
Wirtz was named Bundesliga Player of the Season for 2023-24 after starring during Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten German double, scoring 18 goals and providing 20 assists in all competitions.
The 21-year-old netted a hat-trick as Leverkusen secured their first-ever league title against Werder Bremen, before scoring twice for host nation Germany at Euro 2024.
Leverkusen have insisted the midfielder will not be sold this summer as the club prepare to return to the Champions League under Xabi Alonso but could find it difficult to hold onto the German in 2025.
Europe’s top clubs are interested in a deal, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation alongside Bayern Munich.
Sky Germany are reporting that Bayern have made Wirtz their priority for next summer’s transfer window, with the Bavarians keen to unite Wirtz with Germany teammate Jamal Musiala at club level. During Euro 2024, Wirtz revealed at a press conference that he and Musiala have discussed playing together.
“We joked that we think it would be cool to play together at a club at some point. Now we’re both happy at our clubs,” Wirtz said.
“Real Madrid or Bayern? Jamal is already playing for Bayern, I’m comfortable at Leverkusen.”
Read – Tweets of the Week: England’s next manager and Argentina’s racist chant
See more – Who should win the 2024 Ballon d’Or? Our top contenders