Xabi Alonso (foto: Getty Images)
Xabi Alonso has reportedly made Florian Wirtz his top transfer target, urging Real Madrid to secure the €150m-rated Leverkusen star as his first signing.
The Xabi Alonso era at Real Madrid hasn’t officially begun, but the Spanish coach is already shaping the club’s summer plans—and at the top of his wishlist is Florian Wirtz.
According to reports from Spain, Alonso has identified the Bayer Leverkusen playmaker as his absolute priority for the upcoming transfer window, signaling to Florentino Pérez that Wirtz should be the club’s marquee signing.
The rumors gained traction after Alonso’s recent press conference, where he cryptically noted: “I can’t promise I won’t take a player from Leverkusen with me to my next club.” That comment was enough to fuel speculation that the 21-year-old German international could follow his coach to Madrid.
Wirtz has long been on the radar of Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, with Bayern believed to have been leading the race in recent weeks. Reports from Germany even suggested a preliminary agreement had been reached between the Bavarian giants and Leverkusen.
But Alonso’s potential arrival in Madrid has changed the equation. Speaking candidly, Alonso added: “Wirtz hasn’t told me he only wants Bayern. That’s not what I’ve heard.” The remark has reignited Madrid’s hopes, with club officials now considering whether to meet Leverkusen’s valuation, reportedly set at €150 million.
Leverkusen remain firm: they won’t negotiate for anything below €100 million, aware of the generational talent they possess. And with Wirtz under contract until 2027, they hold the leverage. But Real Madrid’s upcoming squad rebuild could push them to make their move, especially as they look to add youth and creativity to their midfield.
Meanwhile, German outlet BILD claims Wirtz had initially been inclined to join Bayern Munich to stay in Germany and remain close to his family. However, Alonso’s potential move to Madrid may have altered the playmaker’s thinking, opening the door for a dramatic transfer twist.
Wirtz will finish the season having contributed 16 goals and 13 assists in 46 games, capping another standout campaign. Since debuting with Leverkusen, he has racked up 135 appearances, 35 goals, and 45 assists, cementing himself as one of Europe’s brightest young stars.
Whether he remains in Germany or follows Alonso to Spain, one thing is certain: Florian Wirtz will be one of the most sought-after names of the summer transfer window.