Pep Guardiola Eyes Florian Wirtz as Kevin De Bruyne’s Successor at Manchester City

In a stunning development that could reshape Manchester City’s midfield for years to come, reports indicate that manager Pep Guardiola has held direct talks with Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz regarding a potential summer move. Sources close to the situation suggest that Guardiola sees Wirtz as the ideal successor to club legend Kevin De Bruyne, whose long-term future at the Etihad remains uncertain due to persistent injury concerns and growing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.

The 21-year-old German international has been one of Europe’s standout performers this season, playing a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win under Xabi Alonso. With 18 goals and 19 assists across all competitions, Wirtz’s vision, technical ability, and intelligence on the ball have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s elite midfielders — making him a perfect fit for Guardiola’s system.

According to insiders, the Spanish tactician has already outlined how Wirtz would fit into City’s fluid midfield, potentially inheriting the central creative role De Bruyne has mastered since joining the club in 2015. Guardiola is said to be “deeply impressed” by Wirtz’s maturity and tactical understanding, and is keen to secure a deal before other European giants, including Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, make their move.

City are reportedly prepared to meet Bayer Leverkusen’s €150 million asking price — a fee that would make Wirtz the most expensive German footballer in history. In addition, the Premier League champions are believed to be offering the midfielder a lucrative contract worth approximately €25 million per year, reflecting both their financial might and the high expectations attached to his potential arrival.

While there has been no official comment from either club, sources suggest that negotiations are progressing steadily, with Wirtz’s camp open to the move — particularly given the opportunity to work under Guardiola and compete for the biggest trophies in European football.

If completed, the transfer would represent a bold statement of intent from Manchester City, as they look to evolve their squad and maintain their dominance in English and European football. For now, fans will be watching closely as this high-profile saga continues to unfold.