Manchester City have withdrawn from the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, leaving Liverpool and Bayern Munich as the front-runners for one of Europe’s most coveted young talents.

Despite Wirtz being identified as a potential long-term successor to Kevin De Bruyne, City was unwilling to meet the German international’s hefty price tag, which could set a new British transfer record at around £126 million.

Pep Guardiola’s side, known for their disciplined transfer strategy, deemed the cost too steep—a move reminiscent of their past decision to walk away from a £150 million deal for Harry Kane.

Wirtz, just 22, was instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten domestic double last season. With a combined 34 goals and 35 assists across the last two campaigns, the attacking midfielder has firmly established himself as a world-class talent.

He has already earned 29 caps for Germany, with outgoing Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso labelling him “world-class.”

While City’s exit from the race may disappoint some fans, it could prove a silver lining for Phil Foden, whose dip in form and fatigue this season has raised concerns.

The club’s decision may signal renewed faith in Foden’s long-term role at the heart of Guardiola’s midfield.

According to German journalist Christian Falk, Wirtz has shown a preference for Bayern Munich and is believed to have agreed in principle to join the Bavarian giants.

Bayern are reportedly preparing a €100 million (£84.7 million) offer, though it falls significantly short of Leverkusen’s valuation—especially amid interest from Liverpool.

Bayern Munich legend and executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has been open about the club’s interest.

In a February interview with AZ, he stated: “Everyone at FC Bayern agrees that he is exactly the player we want to sign. Not to weaken Leverkusen, but to strengthen us.”

Still, despite all the speculation, there remains a strong belief in Germany that Wirtz may stay at Leverkusen for another season.

The club recently finished as Bundesliga runners-up and made it to the Champions League last 16, where Bayern eliminated them.

Adding to the intrigue, Wirtz’s parents were recently in England reportedly holding discussions with Premier League clubs.

Some sources claim Wirtz himself was in Liverpool to meet representatives of new head coach Arne Slot’s team.

The battle for Wirtz’s signature remains open—for now.

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