City Closing In on Verbal Agreement for Florian Wirtz Amid Bayern Battle

Manchester City are reportedly edging closer to a verbal agreement with Bayer Leverkusen for the signing of highly-rated German midfielder Florian Wirtz – seen by many as the long-term successor to Kevin De Bruyne at the Etihad.

According to Sky Sport journalist Sacha Tavolieri, City have been locked in ‘advanced discussions’ with Leverkusen for several weeks, laying the groundwork for a potential blockbuster transfer. The plan, sources claim, is to establish a strong agreement between the clubs before engaging more directly with the player’s camp.

Wirtz is believed to be City's top priority this summer following confirmation that this season will be De Bruyne’s last in sky blue. However, the path to signing the 21-year-old isn't without complications.

Leverkusen are determined to avoid selling their star man to domestic rivals Bayern Munich – a stance that’s reportedly caused some unrest internally. The Bundesliga champions have tabled the most lucrative salary package so far, but Leverkusen’s asking price tells a different story. Any foreign club – including City – would be expected to pay around €100 million, while Bayern would be forced to fork out €150 million.

Despite Bayern’s financial lure, City insiders remain hopeful of turning the tide and securing one of Europe’s most exciting talents.

Meanwhile, alternative creative midfield options remain under the radar, though one name that continues to surface is Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White. The England international is reportedly admired at the Etihad, but Forest's £100 million valuation could be a sticking point in any future negotiations.