Pep Guardiola Targets £125m Bayer Midfielder as Key Signing Ahead of Arsenal

Pep Guardiola is reportedly pushing for Manchester City to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, outbidding Arsenal for the highly sought-after 21-year-old.

Wirtz has been a key figure in Leverkusen’s success, contributing to their league and cup double last season. This year, he has continued his strong performances, with 15 goals and 12 assists across all competitions.

The Germany international has already attracted attention from top clubs like Arsenal and Real Madrid, with Bild reporting that Mikel Arteta’s side is committed to securing his signature at the end of the season. However, Guardiola sees Wirtz as the ideal long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, whose contract expires this summer, and has made him a priority for Manchester City.

Though Guardiola was reportedly keen to bring Wirtz to City during the January transfer window, Leverkusen made it clear they had no intention of selling him mid-season. The German club’s management is now working to extend Wirtz’s contract, keeping him at Leverkusen until 2027.

City manager Pep Guardiola is determined to secure a top midfielder to bolster his squad and provide a long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne. The signing is expected to give Manchester City a competitive edge as they navigate a fierce summer transfer battle with Arsenal.