Arsenal Moves for Wirtz Transfer: Could Outmaneuver Liverpool and Real Madrid in Historic Deal

Arsenal is looking to sign Florian Wirtz and potentially beat out rivals like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City.

The Gunners are targeting a major move in the upcoming summer transfer window, aiming to bring Bayer Leverkusen’s young star Florian Wirtz to London. Wirtz, who burst onto the scene in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, suffered a major setback in March 2022 with an ACL injury. While there were concerns about his ability to return to top form, he silenced doubters by playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic 2023 season.

Wirtz had an outstanding campaign last season, scoring 18 goals and providing 20 assists in 49 appearances, helping Leverkusen go unbeaten in the Bundesliga, win the DFB-Pokal, and reach the Europa League final. His performances earned him the Bundesliga Player of the Year award, and he’s now a key figure for the German national team, further increasing his appeal to Europe’s top clubs.

Arsenal Emerges as a Leading Contender

According to Bild, Arsenal has emerged as a strong contender to sign Wirtz. Manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu have been tracking the talented midfielder for some time and are reportedly ready to make a move at the end of the season.

Arsenal is prepared to break its transfer record, with reports suggesting they are willing to pay €150 million (£125.5 million) for Wirtz—a fee that would surpass the £105 million they spent on Declan Rice in July 2023.

While clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City are also in the race for Wirtz’s signature, Arsenal is determined to do whatever it takes to land the player. Arteta believes he can convince the young star to join the Gunners. Wirtz, who dreams of competing for the Champions League and winning the Ballon d’Or, could see Arsenal as the ideal project to achieve these goals.

The Challenge of Turning Down Real Madrid

However, rejecting clubs like Real Madrid could prove difficult for Wirtz. Madrid is one of the top contenders to win the Champions League, especially with the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappé strengthening their attack. Arsenal may try to capitalize on the fact that Wirtz might not be guaranteed regular playing time in Madrid, whereas in London, he could be a key figure.

If Wirtz joins Arsenal, it could lead to questions about the futures of players like Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, given the competition for attacking midfield spots.

In addition to pursuing Wirtz, Arsenal is also reportedly interested in Eintracht Frankfurt’s defensive midfielder Hugo Larsson. However, they will face competition from Liverpool for Larsson’s signature. Whether Arsenal can secure Wirtz and how the transfer would impact the club financially remains to be seen.