EXCLUSIVE: Man City consider Florian Wirtz move as Mahrez replacement
Steve Kay
- Updated: 4 Aug 2023 14:11 BST
- 3 min read
Exclusive
Manchester City is considering Florian Wirtz as a potential replacement for Riyad Mahrez in this summer's transfer window.
We are told that German player is on the list of targets for the Citizens, and Pep Guardiola is a huge admirer of the youngster's technical ability and potential. Bayer Leverkusen have already sold Moussa Diaby during this window, while Edmond Tapsoba appears to be heading for a move to Tottenham. The futures of Jonathan Tah and Jeremie Frimpong also remain uncertain. As a result, the price for Wirtz could be significantly inflated, making it challenging for the Premier League club to acquire him.
But we have been informed that Wirtz is open to a move, and Bayer are willing to sell any player if the right price is offered. Wirtz currently has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €37.3 million. The 20-year-old's value was €79 million before he suffered a devastating injury in March 2022, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in a 1–0 defeat against Koln.
MORE: Guardiola has Man City’s next Mahrez within reach – and he’s BETTER than Saka!
Gvardiol gets 'Here We Go' to Man City
It comes after Fabrizio Romano has dropped his 'here we go' on Josko Gvardiol's transfer to Man City.
It's thought that talks had initially stalled because, as Romano claims, RB Leipzig were not happy that news of an imminent transfer had been leaked to the media, the deal now appears to have come to fruition.
Indeed, in recent days, talks between City and the Red Bulls progressed swiftly and an agreement was reached, for sum of just €90m. The deal will reportedly not include any add-ons, but even the guaranteed €90m is enough to see Gvardiol pip Harry Maguire to the honour of being the world's priciest defender.
