In a move that has sent shockwaves through European football, Bayer Leverkusen’s star midfielder Florian Wirtz has reportedly reached an agreement to join Bayern Munich this summer, marking one of the most significant transfers in recent Bundesliga history. The 22-year-old German international, widely regarded as one of the brightest talents in world football, has been a long-standing target for the Bavarian giants, and the latest developments suggest that Bayern have finally secured their man, outpacing competition from elite clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid.
According to reports from reputable sources, including Bild and Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg, Wirtz and his family have signaled a strong preference for Bayern Munich, with discussions between the player’s camp and the club progressing significantly in recent months. The agreement on personal terms is said to include a lucrative five-year contract, with Bayern prepared to offer Wirtz an annual salary in the range of €20-25 million. This financial package underscores Bayern’s determination to make Wirtz a central figure in their future plans, particularly as they aim to pair him with fellow German star Jamal Musiala in a dynamic attacking midfield partnership.
The transfer saga, which has been brewing for years, gained momentum in recent weeks as Wirtz reportedly informed Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso of his desire to move to Munich. Despite interest from Manchester City, where manager Pep Guardiola was keen to lure Wirtz as a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, and Real Madrid, who saw him as a long-term asset, Wirtz’s preference to stay in Germany has given Bayern a decisive edge. Sources indicate that Wirtz’s father and advisor, Hans-Joachim Wirtz, played a pivotal role in steering the player toward Bayern, believing it to be the best step for his development before potentially exploring opportunities abroad later in his career.
However, the transfer is not yet finalized, as Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen have yet to agree on a transfer fee. Leverkusen, aware of Wirtz’s value and his contract that runs until 2027, are expected to demand a fee well in excess of €100 million, potentially reaching €130-140 million with add-ons. Bayern’s financial capability to meet these demands is bolstered by their strong economic position and plans to raise additional funds through player sales, with names like Kingsley Coman, Leon Goretzka, and Serge Gnabry linked to potential departures. Despite Leverkusen’s hope to retain Wirtz for at least another season, the player’s clear intent to join Bayern has shifted the narrative, making a summer move increasingly likely.
Wirtz’s potential arrival at the Allianz Arena is seen as a statement of intent from Bayern, who recently clinched the Bundesliga title under head coach Vincent Kompany. The young midfielder’s exceptional record—16 goals and 13 assists in 43 appearances this season, following a starring role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in 2023/24—makes him a perfect fit for Bayern’s ambitions to dominate domestically and compete for the UEFA Champions League. His versatility, vision, and ability to influence games have drawn comparisons to Musiala, and the prospect of the two young stars combining for club and country has excited fans and pundits alike.
Bayer Leverkusen, while reluctant to lose their talisman, have not been officially informed of Wirtz’s decision to leave, and negotiations between the clubs are yet to commence. The strained relationship between Leverkusen and Bayern, a result of past transfer dealings, could complicate matters, but Bayern’s confidence in securing the deal remains high. Reports also suggest that Wirtz would be willing to wait until 2026 if an agreement between the clubs cannot be reached this summer, highlighting his commitment to joining the German champions.
The transfer has sparked widespread discussion, with Bayern’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß and supervisory board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge openly expressing their desire to bring Wirtz to Munich. Hoeneß, who has maintained a close relationship with the Wirtz family, has previously hinted at Bayern’s willingness to spend big on a German talent, and this move aligns with that vision. Meanwhile, Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes has remained optimistic about keeping Wirtz, stating that the club would find a solution if the player were to depart, but the momentum clearly favors Bayern.