Manchester City has recently withdrawn from the race to secure the signing of Bayer Leverkusen’s promising midfielder, Florian Wirtz, due to the exorbitant cost associated with acquiring the Germany international. According to reports from the Daily Mail, the potential deal to bring Wirtz to the Etihad Stadium was anticipated to be the most expensive in the club’s history, potentially exceeding £250 million when factoring in wages and bonuses. This decision by City is a significant boost for both Bayern Munich and Liverpool, who are reportedly still interested in the young talent.
Wirtz, at just 22 years of age, was seen as a suitable replacement for the aging Kevin De Bruyne, who has been a pivotal figure in City’s midfield. However, City executives have expressed that they do not believe the financial outlay required for Wirtz represents good value, which reflects a pattern in their dealings. They had previously stepped back from negotiations for players including Harry Maguire, Alexis Sanchez, Jorginho, and Fred—all of whom eventually joined rival Premier League clubs. This season, Wirtz has made a substantial impact with 23 goal contributions, solidifying his status as a standout player for Leverkusen, especially with the club currently facing the departure of Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool and manager Xabi Alonso moving to Real Madrid.
In a different sphere of the transfer market, Manchester United has formulated two lists of striker targets in anticipation of the outcome of the UEFA Europa League final, which will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+. The stakes are high, as United could secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League with a victory against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao. Conversely, a loss would mean they miss out on European football entirely, complicating their ability to attract their primary transfer targets, as reported by The Sun.
The Sun refers to United’s “List A,” which includes players such as Viktor Gyokeres, Liam Delap, and Benjamin Sesko, all of whom are desired due to their exceptional performance in recent seasons. Meanwhile, List B serves as a backup plan, showcasing alternative options like Lorenzo Lucca, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Moise Kean, and Mateo Retegui. Notably, Gyokeres has garnered attention as one of Europe’s most exciting prospects, having netted 53 goals this season, with Sporting CP reportedly willing to part ways with him for around £60 million. However, avenues for Gyokeres’ arrival may close if United cannot offer him Champions League football.
Meanwhile, the landscape of English football is also seeing interest in Evann Guessand from Nice—a 23-year-old forward being dubbed as the “new Didier Drogba.” The Telegraph detailed that various clubs, including West Ham and Aston Villa, are vying for his signature, alongside several teams from the Bundesliga. Guessand’s rising stock is fueled by his performance in Ligue 1, where he has showcased dynamic playing ability, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists. Currently valued at approximately €40 million (£33.4 million), his transfer could represent a savvy acquisition amid the current inflated market.
Lastly, Arsenal is navigating its own challenges as they look to find a backup for current goalkeeper David Raya for the upcoming season. Following the conclusion of Brazilian goalkeeper Neto’s loan from Bournemouth, Arsenal finds itself in need of a reliable second option. Reports indicate that while Karl Hein, an Estonia international on loan at Real Valladolid, could return, his future remains uncertain. Thus, the club appears inclined to secure a new goalkeeper, with Espanyol’s Joan García emerging as a prime target. Although Arsenal had previously tried to sign García, complications have arisen due to his improved performance this season, attracting interest from other clubs and complicating his potential move to the Emirates.
In summary, the transfer landscape is filled with intrigue as top Premier League clubs maneuver to strengthen their squads, weighing the financial implications of potential signings against the backdrop of a competitive footballing environment.