Florian Wirtz reportedly turned down a move to Manchester City after Pep Guardiola failed to guarantee him a specific commitment.
In recent weeks, speculation surrounding the future of Bayer Leverkusen star Wirtz has intensified. The 22-year-old German has attracted interest from top clubs, including Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Manchester City.
However, City eventually withdrew from the race to sign the talented midfielder, leaving Bayern and Liverpool to compete for his signature. Reports earlier this week suggested Liverpool had taken the lead, with Wirtz himself favoring a move to Anfield.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed: “Liverpool’s first official offer for Florian Wirtz, exceeding €100 million with add-ons, has been submitted to Bayer Leverkusen. Negotiations between the clubs are ongoing, with both sides aiming to finalize the deal soon. Wirtz has already informed Leverkusen of his desire to join Liverpool.”
Now, fresh reports from German outlet BILD claim it was Wirtz who rejected City’s approach. According to the report, Guardiola expressed interest in having Wirtz eventually replace Kevin De Bruyne but admitted he could not guarantee he would remain at City until his contract expires in 2027. This uncertainty reportedly prompted Wirtz to decline the move to the Etihad himself.
BILD stated: “A remark from championship-winning coach Pep Guardiola ultimately led to City’s withdrawal. While outlining his vision for Wirtz as De Bruyne’s successor, Guardiola made it clear there was no certainty he would stay until 2027. That led Wirtz to reject City—not the other way around.”
In addition to their pursuit of Wirtz, Liverpool are also said to be targeting Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. Romano added: “Milos Kerkez has already agreed to join Liverpool, with no issues on personal terms. Talks between the clubs are ongoing. Liverpool remain active in the Wirtz deal while maintaining regular contact with Bournemouth.”
The Reds are also reportedly close to securing a deal for Wirtz’s Leverkusen teammate, Jeremie Frimpong.