Alonso Denies Wirtz-Bayern Transfer Claims

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso strongly denied reports that star midfielder Florian Wirtz wants to join Bayern Munich.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Amid many transfer rumors, Xabi Alonso has denied claims that Florian Wirtz told him he wants to join Bayern Munich. The Spanish manager said such information is not true. This comes just hours after reports claimed the midfielder had already agreed to personal terms with Bayern.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Wirtz has been brilliant this season. He has 16 goals and 13 assists in 43 games in all competitions. His performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester City and Real Madrid, who are reportedly competing with Bayern for his signature. Recent reports suggested Bayern Munich are ready to pay up to €100 million for Wirtz, which would make him the club’s most expensive signing. Other sources claimed that Leverkusen will demand at least €150 million for him.

The timing is particularly significant as Alonso himself announced earlier today that he will be leaving Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, just one year after guiding the club to their first-ever Bundesliga title. Leverkusen currently sit in second place in the Bundesliga, and have started looking for a new coach that will hopefully build up on Alonso’s success.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR WIRTZ?

Wirtz is under contract with Leverkusen until 2027, which puts the club in a strong negotiating position. Reports indicate Leverkusen has offered him a contract extension that includes a €125 million release clause in 2026. If he doesn’t extend, a summer bidding war seems likely, with Bayern, Real Madrid, and Manchester City all interested in signing him.

In the immediate future, Wirtz will focus on helping Leverkusen finish their season strongly. The club faces RB Leipzig this weekend, in a key Bundesliga match that could determine their qualification for Champions League football next season, as Leipzig needs a strong result in order to try and salvage their season.