Manchester City Withdraw from Race to Sign Florian Wirtz Due to £252m Valuation

Manchester City have officially withdrawn from the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz, citing the substantial financial commitment required for the transfer. The total projected cost, encompassing transfer fees and wages, was estimated at approximately £252 million, leading City to deem the deal financially unviable.  

Wirtz, a 22-year-old German international, has been instrumental in Leverkusen's recent successes, contributing 16 goals and 15 assists in the current season. His performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, with Bayern Munich and Liverpool now emerging as the leading contenders for his signature.  

Manchester City's decision aligns with their historical approach to transfers, where they have previously opted out of high-cost deals, such as those for Harry Kane and Frenkie de Jong, in favor of more financially prudent alternatives like Erling Haaland and Rodri. In light of this, City are now redirecting their focus towards other midfield targets, including Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White and AC Milan's Tijjani Reijnders.  

As the transfer window progresses, the competition for Wirtz's services intensifies, with Bayern Munich reportedly regaining a leading position in the pursuit. Liverpool, under new management, is also making significant efforts to secure the talented midfielder, potentially breaking their transfer record in the process.  

Wirtz remains under contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2027, and any potential transfer would require a substantial financial commitment from interested clubs. As the situation develops, the football world watches closely to see where this promising talent will continue his career.