Real Madrid is once again the first choice for one of the most sought-after talents in European soccer. According to the German newspaper BILD, Florian Wirtz has decided that his ideal future lies at Santiago Bernabéu. The Bayer Leverkusen player prefers the white team over Manchester City, which would be his second alternative, and Bayern Munich, which completes the podium of his preferences.
Wirtz, 21 years old, is having a spectacular season under the orders of Xabi Alonso. He is the soul of the Bundesliga champion Leverkusen and has been attracting the interest of the continent's major clubs for some time. His release clause amounts to €125 million, and his club is not willing to negotiate even one euro less. The player is under contract until 2027, which allows the German team to maintain full control of the operation.
Florian Wirtz prioritizes Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso could be key
From the player's camp, they have made it clear that if there is any opportunity to wear white, he will wait. The player's will is firm: his dream is to play at Real Madrid. At the white club, they value his profile, although the internal reality is different. Florentino Pérez and his sports management prioritize other positions: two full-backs, with one already secured, a midfielder, and perhaps another forward.
At Valdebebas, Wirtz's talent is not in question. His high price and the number of players in the offensive zone (Bellingham, Brahim, or Arda Güler, among others), though, make his signing not an immediate priority. However, it is not ruled out in the medium term, especially if there are significant departures from the squad or if Xabi Alonso ends up on the bench.
Florian Wirtz is willing to wait for Real Madrid, and that could be key if the operation is finally activated in 2025. Meanwhile, the player will continue to shine in the Bundesliga, dreaming that his next destination will be Bernabéu. If he doesn't see progress from Florentino Pérez, he will opt for one of his two remaining options, being clear that he wants to leave Leverkusen this summer.