Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz has admitted his interest in testing himself in a new environment ahead of a summer transfer window which could bring about a blockbuster move away from the club.
22-year-old Wirtz is approaching the final two years of his contract and is being targeted by the wealthy trio of Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Real Madrid, all of whom have been linked with a deal which could be worth close to €150m (£127.2m).
Of the three interested clubs, it was recently claimed that Wirtz is favouring a summer switch to Bayern amid reports he has already reached an agreement over personal terms with the new Bundesliga champions.
While Leverkusen officials have not yet given up hope of keeping Wirtz, they appear to be fighting a losing battle and the Germany international has now left the door open to a move away in the near future.
“I’m quite lucky to have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and to now be able to play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe,” he told Sports Illustrated Germany. “I have great respect for the guys here in Leverkusen, who come from South America or Africa, for example, and leave their families and surroundings behind for their careers.
“I’m definitely keen to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience something new. I know the football changing rooms well enough and am convinced that I would quickly find a place anywhere.”
Wirtz also laughed off suggestions that his next club has already been decided.
“I keep seeing posts about me on social media,” he continued. “Every now and then, I have to laugh when people write about where I’m supposedly playing next season. Nobody but me can know that. That’s why I don’t pay any attention to such news and deal with them in a pretty chill way.”
Leverkusen could see a number of influential figures depart this summer. Alongside Wirtz, there is significant uncertainty surrounding the future of manager Xabi Alonso, who is expected to join Real Madrid and is thought to be keen to bring Wirtz to Spain with him.
Madrid have also been linked with centre-back Jonathan Tah, who has plenty of admirers as he prepares to leave the club on a free transfer.
90min.com
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