Florian Wirtz's name is on everyone's lips. At 21 years old, the Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder has established himself as one of the great stars of European soccer. His talent, vision of the game, and ability to make a difference in key moments have made the best clubs on the continent closely follow his development.
In the past season, the German scored 18 goals and provided 20 assists, proving that he is much more than a promise. In the current campaign, his numbers continue to impress: he has already scored 15 goals and provided 12 assists, confirming that his growth is unstoppable. His versatility allows him to adapt to any offensive system, making him a highly sought-after player in the market.
Barça and Madrid in the Race for His Signing
Wirtz's talent has not gone unnoticed by the two LaLiga giants. Both Barcelona and Madrid have shown interest in signing him, aware that he could become a key figure in the coming years.
The white team has been linked with the German on several occasions, especially due to his relationship with Xabi Alonso, the current Leverkusen coach. There has been speculation about the possibility of the Spanish coach bringing him to Santiago Bernabéu, following the same path as Toni Kroos.
However, Florian Wirtz has made it clear which team has been his favorite since childhood. His admiration for Barça is public, and there are even images of him wearing the blue and red jersey as a child. His way of understanding soccer fits with the culé philosophy, and his recent statements have further fueled rumors about his possible arrival at Camp Nou.
His Idol and His Admiration for...
Since breaking into the elite, Wirtz has never hidden his admiration for Lionel Messi. For him, the Argentine star has been his main reference and the inspiration that led him to develop his playing style.
But Messi is not the only Barça player Wirtz has praised recently. In recent months, the German attacking midfielder has pointed to Lamine Yamal as one of the most extraordinary talents in current soccer. Highlighting his ability to turn games around at such a young age.
These comments have been interpreted as a clear nod to Barça. While Real Madrid remains alert to the situation, it seems that the German's preference points toward Camp Nou.
A Complicated Signing
The main obstacle for the blue and red team is not his talent or his willingness to play in Barcelona, but the economic factor.
Bayer Leverkusen is not willing to part with their star easily, and the cost of his signing is estimated at 150 million euros. This figure represents a great challenge for FC Barcelona, which continues to work on improving its financial situation to compete in major operations like this.
Barça seeks to continue strengthening its squad with young players who fit its playing philosophy. Wirtz meets all the conditions to become a pillar of the blue and red project in the long term, but his signing will depend on many factors.
If the Catalan club manages to generate income through strategic sales and finds a formula to finance the operation, his arrival could become a reality.
For now, the only sure thing is that Wirtz has already made clear which is his favorite team and that, if he has the opportunity to choose, his destination seems to be in Barcelona.