Florian Wirtz looks set to prolong his stay at Bayer Leverkusen: Reports

Florian Wirtz is actively engaged in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen concerning a new contract that aims to secure his future with the club until 2028. 

According to Sky Sport in Germany, while a formal agreement has yet to be reached, progress is being made, and Wirtz is close to finalising his new deal. The anticipated contract extension is expected to enhance his wages significantly, potentially elevating his salary above the €10 million per season threshold.

Wirtz has become a highly sought-after player following his standout performances for Leverkusen, where he played a key role in helping Xabi Alonso's team secure their historic Bundesliga title last season. In recent months, top European clubs such as Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Real Madrid have shown considerable interest in the Germany international. However, reports indicate that a transfer to any of these prestigious clubs is currently not on the horizon, as he is set to remain with Leverkusen at least until the 2026 World Cup.

Lothar Matthäus's take on Wirtz's transfer news

“If I were Florian Wirtz, I would stay in Leverkusen until the 2026 World Cup. So if he were to extend his contract, that would make perfect sense to me. Making a big move always brings with it a lot of fuss that doesn’t go unnoticed. At Bayer, Wirtz is in his familiar, protected environment and could prepare himself perfectly for the World Cup," Lothar said.

"At Real Madrid, Manchester City & Co. there is a different media world and the pressure is increasing, while at Bayer he is protected even when he is not playing so well. Kylian Mbappe is the best example, who as the king of Paris has somewhat faded away in Madrid over the last six months," he added.

In the 2024-25 campaign, the 21-year-old midfielder has been in outstanding form for his club, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists in just 24 matches across all competitions. Wirtz will take the field next on Saturday as the German champions face Freiburg in their final game of 2024 before the Bundesliga enters its winter break.