On the move: Florian Wirtz has been linked with a big-money transfer this summer
The 22-year-old’s contract at Bayer Leverkusen expires in 2027, leaving the Bundesliga club in a position where they likely need to make a decision on Wirtz’s future in the upcoming window.
Recent reports have strongly linked Wirtz with a move to Bayern Munich, though Leverkusen are understood to be holding out for a fee of around £126million.
City were also believed to be in the race and held talks with Wirtz’s representatives, particularly as they look for a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who will leave the club this summer.
However, according to BBC Sport, the club have pulled out of the battle to sign Wirtz due to financial demands.
It’s claimed that City believe a deal to sign Wirtz could reach as much as £250m once wages and other costs are included, which they do not believe represents value for money.
City could instead now move for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, who they are keen admirers of, while there is also hope that Phil Foden will return to his best form after a frustrating season.
The decision to move on from Writz could be good news for Liverpool, who are understood to have interest themselves and would push ahead with trying to bring him to Anfield should it become apparent the player is willing to leave the Bundesliga.
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The Times report that Wirtz’s parents, who act as his agents, flew to the UK earlier this month as they consider options for their son.
Liverpool have already done business with Leverkusen, with Jeremie Frimpong set to complete a £29.5m switch.
Xabi Alonso will also leave the German club and is expected to take the Real Madrid job, adding to the size of Leverkusen’s rebuild.