Hansi Flick has already started moving pieces in his new project. The German coach wants an FC Barcelona with identity, high pressing, and a lot of soccer between the lines. That's why, although he values young players like Gavi or Fermín López, he is clear that he needs something more to compete in Europe, which is why he has set his sights on talents like this one.
His great desire has a first and last name: Florian Wirtz. The attacking midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen is one of the biggest sensations in European soccer. He has been key in the undefeated Bundesliga title and, in addition, he shines in the German national team. Flick knows him perfectly and doesn't hide it: he wants him at Barça.
The problem is clear: the operation isn't easy. Wirtz has a contract, a market, and major offers. Arne Slot's Liverpool seems well positioned. There is also interest from the Bundesliga. But Flick doesn't give up; he believes he can convince him if Barça manages to balance their accounts. That's where an unexpected player comes in: Nike.
Nike wants Wirtz at Barça
The sports brand has a possible key to the operation in their hands. According to sources close to the blaugrana environment, the American company would be willing to help with part of the signing. The reason? Florian Wirtz fits the profile Nike is looking for in their global campaign: young, media-friendly, and with impact on social media.
This has already happened with other strategic signings in the past. At Barça, where relations with Nike have been tense at times, this could be a path to reconciliation. If Nike agrees to take on part of the cost, the signing could speed up, but there is still much to solve first. The first thing is to be in the 1:1 rule, something that seems imminent after Limak has given the OK for the payments of Camp Nou VIP boxes.
Salary space, the first step
To begin with, the Catalan club needs to make space, not only in the squad, but also in the wage bill. Flick is aware of this. That's why, although he dreams of Wirtz, he won't put on public pressure. He prefers the sporting management to work in silence. Meanwhile, the player keeps himself on the sidelines of the different proposals he has.
Florian Wirtz is on vacation after a brilliant season. He won't play the Club World Cup with Leverkusen unless there is a big surprise. There is talk of a possible departure this very summer. His entourage remains silent, but they don't close any doors. The culés want a serious project. Hansi Flick can offer him that at Camp Nou. The German coach has been clear with Deco: if there is a possibility, he wants to sign Florian Wirtz.
Right now it's not an emergency, but it is an important priority for Hansi Flick. FC Barcelona needs a differential '10' and the Bayer Leverkusen player is just that, one of the best in Europe in his position, capable of scoring, assisting, and leading.