Manchester City have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Bayer Leverkusen to sign German sensation Florian Wirtz this summer, in what could become one of the most explosive transfers of the window. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been on the radar of Europe’s elite for the past two seasons, and City appear to have moved quickly to position themselves ahead of the pack.

Wirtz has enjoyed a breakout campaign under Xabi Alonso, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten title-winning season. With 18 goals and 19 assists across all competitions, his creativity, tactical intelligence, and composure under pressure have made him a standout in both domestic and European play. For City, who are preparing for life beyond Kevin De Bruyne’s peak years, Wirtz is seen as a natural successor—combining flair with the discipline that Pep Guardiola demands in his system.

While the deal is not yet finalized, sources close to the situation suggest that City and Leverkusen have reached an understanding on key terms, with a transfer fee expected to approach $110 million. Personal terms with the player are also believed to be close, though the final green light will likely depend on how Germany fare in this summer’s European Championship.

Guardiola is said to be personally involved in the pursuit, with the club viewing Wirtz not just as a signing for next season, but as a central figure for the next decade. The plan would be to gradually integrate him into City’s midfield core alongside Phil Foden and Rodri, reshaping the identity of the team while keeping their title ambitions intact.

“Everything I’ve worked for is to play with the best, against the best,” Wirtz said recently. “When the right challenge comes, I’ll be ready to take it.”

If completed, the move would signal Manchester City’s intent to stay ahead of the curve—not just replacing legends, but evolving the team into its next dominant phase. The potential arrival of Wirtz could tilt the balance of European power even further in the direction of the Etihad.