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Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen’s 22-year-old attacking midfielder, has become the focal point of a high-stakes transfer saga involving Europe’s elite clubs, with Liverpool and Manchester City joining Bayern Munich in a heated pursuit of the German international.

Recent developments, including direct talks between Wirtz’s camp and the Premier League giants, have intensified speculation about his future, setting the stage for the summer transfer window.

Bayern Munich, long considered frontrunners, remain confident due to a purported verbal agreement with Wirtz dating to 2024.

Bild reported that Bayern have secured terms with the player, who allegedly prefers staying in Germany.

The Bavarians plan an initial €100 million (£84m) bid but face pressure from Premier League clubs willing to exceed that figure.

But now chief BILD reporter Christian Falk has now come out to suggest that if Wirtz were to leave the Bundesliga for the Premier League – it would be for Liverpool at this moment in time.

However, the German champions are still confident of getting a deal done:

“We have already reported that Manchester City have made an offer for the German,” the head of football at BILD says to Caught Offside.

“Apparently, however, there has also been a meeting with Liverpool FC.

As things stand, Liverpool are further ahead than Man City in the poker.

“But, the truth is: FC Bayern are still optimistic that they will get their dream player.

Either this summer or in 2026, as his contract runs until 2027.”

It does seem slightly strange that Liverpool are ahead of Man City, at Pep Guardiola’s side would surely be able to outbid the Reds.

With De Bruyne’s departure creating a creative vacuum, Wirtz’s versatility as a No?

10 or false nine makes him an ideal fit for the Cityzens.

Meanwhile, Bayern’s strategy includes two scenarios: a summer transfer or a 2026 move at a reduced fee if Wirtz honors his contract

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