The transfer saga surrounding Florian Wirtz has become one of the most captivating narratives of the 2025 summer window. The 22-year-old German attacking midfielder, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, has attracted significant interest from top European clubs, notably Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Real Madrid. Despite Real Madrid’s efforts, Wirtz has reportedly expressed a preference for joining Bayern Munich, a decision that has implications for all parties involved.
Wirtz’s decision to favor Bayern Munich over Real Madrid and Manchester City has been communicated to his current coach, Xabi Alonso. Reports suggest that Wirtz has informed Alonso of his desire to move to Bayern, citing personal preferences and career aspirations. This development is significant, considering Alonso’s recent appointment as Real Madrid’s head coach, a position that many believed could influence Wirtz’s decision.
Florian Wirtz Transfer Saga: Bayern Munich Leading Race Over Real Madrid & Liverpool
Bayern Munich’s confidence in securing Wirtz is bolstered by their strategic planning and the player’s inclination to remain in the Bundesliga. The club is reportedly prepared to offer €100 million for Wirtz, a figure that aligns with Bayer Leverkusen’s valuation of the player. Leverkusen has set a high price tag of €150 million, reflecting Wirtz’s importance to the team and his potential impact at any club he joins.
Real Madrid, under the new leadership of Xabi Alonso, is undergoing a significant transformation. The club has already secured the signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth for €59.5 million, aiming to strengthen their defensive line. Additionally, Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to join on a free transfer from Liverpool, providing a boost to the right-back position.
In the midfield, Real Madrid has shown interest in several players, including Enzo Fernández of Chelsea, Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool, Hugo Larsson of Eintracht Frankfurt, and Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad. However, acquiring Fernández and Mac Allister may prove challenging, as both Chelsea and Liverpool are reluctant to sell their key midfielders. Larsson and Zubimendi present more viable options, with Larsson emerging as a standout performer for Frankfurt.
Real Madrid’s pursuit of Wirtz also involves considerations of potential player exchanges. Xabi Alonso has reportedly expressed interest in Arda Güler, a young talent at Real Madrid, as a possible replacement for Wirtz at Leverkusen. While Real Madrid is hesitant to part with Güler permanently, a loan deal could be a compromise, allowing Güler to gain experience while providing Leverkusen with a capable midfielder.
The club is also focusing on reinforcing the left-back position. Álvaro Carreras of Benfica is the primary target, though negotiations are ongoing. As an alternative, Alejandro Grimaldo of Bayer Leverkusen is being considered, especially given his previous working relationship with Xabi Alonso. Grimaldo’s experience and availability at a reasonable cost make him an attractive option.
In terms of departures, Rodrygo Goes has attracted interest from Premier League clubs, notably Arsenal. The Brazilian winger is reportedly exploring options due to the tactical changes under Xabi Alonso and the competition for attacking positions at Real Madrid. A potential transfer could provide Real Madrid with additional funds to pursue other targets.