Daily Schmankerl: Florian Wirtz to spurn Bayern Munich in favor of leadership development at Bayer Leverkusen?; Bayern eyeing defensive starlet; James Rodriguez shut out of Club World Cup?; Manchester City wants Theo Hernandez; and MORE!
Briefly

Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz is close to a contract extension, with ongoing talks for over six months. His future is uncertain amid speculation about coach Xabi Alonso's position. Wirtz, whose contract expires in 2027, has a significant market value over 100 million euros, prompting considerations for a transfer. However, his personal development and leadership opportunities at Leverkusen, alongside preparing for the 2026 World Cup in a familiar environment, could influence his decision to stay rather than move to a top European club.
Contract talks between Florian Wirtz and Bayer 04 began at least half a year ago. The framework for an extension is in place, but his approval is still missing.
With a transfer value of well over 100 million euros, it is too risky to keep the playmaker with his current contract term until summer 2026.
The player's side believes that Wirtz's development is incomplete, and he could mature further in a leadership role at Leverkusen before a potential move.
Preparing for his first World Cup in 2026 in a familiar environment is an incentive for Wirtz to stay at Bayer, free from disruptive factors.
Read at Bavarian Football Works
[
|
]