Pep Guardiola identifies Florian Wirtz as 'dream' replacement for Kevin De Bruyne: Report

The Belgium international will become a free agent at the end of this season.

Bayer Leverkusen’s star Florian Wirtz is supposedly Pep Guardiola’s “dream” successor for Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City.

According to Sport Bild, Guardiola is keen to restructure his team as De Bruyne’s contract at the Etihad is set to expire on June 30. He views Wirtz as a long-term alternative who can guide City’s midfield for many years to come.

Guardiola would have liked to sign Wirtz during the January transfer window, but Leverkusen had previously made clear that a mid-season transfer was out of the question. The high asking price was yet another significant obstacle.

The 21-year-old is allegedly in discussions with Leverkusen about a contract extension, despite rumours about his future. With a release clause of about €125 million (£104 million/$130 million) that would go into effect in the summer of 2026, the proposed new deal would extend until 2027 rather than 2028.

✅ Pep Guardiola still wants Florian Wirtz (21) for Manchester City❇️ City already tried to get Wirtz this Winter ❇️ Wirtz is about to extend his contract in Leverkusen til 2028, but an exit clause for 2026 is to be included pic.twitter.com/puwDiHQVpX

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) February 11, 2025

In keeping with his increasing significance to the squad, his wages are also anticipated to rise from €8 million (£6.6m/$8.28m) annually to above €10 million (£8.34m/$10.34m).

Leverkusen, however, are willing to cash in this summer for €150 million (£125 million/$155 million) if Wirtz decides not to extend his contract rather than risk losing him for a lesser sum later on.

Guardiola has emphasized that acquiring elite young players who can support City’s competitiveness over the next four to five years must be the major goal of the team’s recruitment strategy.

Given that Wirtz is now one of the most sought-after young players in European football, particularly after scoring six goals in eight Champions League games this season, this idea is a fantastic fit for his profile.

Guardiola may have the great chance to acquire his ideal addition this summer, since Leverkusen may be willing to sell Wirtz. It is unclear, though, if City will pay the astronomical €150 million (£125 million/$155 million) to replace a modern-day legend De Bruyne with a 21-year-old who still is developing.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.