by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, May 15 (Xinhua) -- According to reports from Germany, England, and Spain, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich are locked in an intense competition for the highly sought-after German midfielder.
Bayern Munich initially appeared to have the inside track. However, things took a turn last Tuesday when it was revealed that Wirtz's family had taken a secret trip on a private jet. Early reports suggested the destination was Manchester, but speculation quickly shifted to Liverpool, where the 22-year-old's entourage was said to have visited the club's facilities.
Wirtz remains under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2027, and his future is still uncertain. Leverkusen executives, including CEO Fernando Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes, are hopeful the attacker will remain with the club for another season. However, Premier League clubs are reportedly accelerating negotiations to meet Leverkusen's asking price-believed to be up to €150 million.
Bayern may be losing ground. Reports suggest the club is only prepared to offer €100 million and could wait another year before making a move. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has gained momentum, reportedly securing current Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, who is expected to take over as head coach of Brazil's national team.
Leverkusen is said to favor an international transfer for Wirtz to avoid strengthening domestic rival Bayern. The club has reportedly granted Wirtz permission to engage in talks with other teams.
Although German media previously reported an agreement between Wirtz's father, Hans-Joachim, and Bayern supervisory board member Uli Hoeness, the entry of international contenders appears to have reshaped the transfer landscape.
Leverkusen seems prepared for a major squad overhaul. Defender Jonathan Tah is reportedly linked to Bayern, and Jeremie Frimpong is said to be exploring a move to Liverpool. The club is also targeting 20-year-old Argentine midfielder Nico Paz and Como coach Cesc Fabregas. Milan defender and German international Malick Thiaw is reportedly being considered as Tah's replacement.
With Alonso expected to join Real Madrid, the Spanish powerhouse is believed to have improved its chances of landing Wirtz. The ongoing competition has put Bayern's management under pressure, particularly board member Max Eberl, as Hoeness and fellow board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge continue to advocate for Wirtz.
The Bavarian club now anxiously awaits the midfielder's decision. ■
