Bayer Leverkusen are growing in confidence that Florian Wirtz will reject the chance to leave the club this summer in favour of signing a new contract, a report has claimed.
Wirtz, 21, has enjoyed two sensational seasons since returning from a serious injury. After inspiring Leverkusen's unlikely Bundesliga triumph last year with 18 goals and 20 assists in all competitions, the Germany international is hoping to exceed those totals this time around, with 28 goal involvements to his name so far in 2024/25.
Such form has, unsurprisingly, caught the eye of Europe's elite. While a glut of top sides have been tentatively linked with Wirtz, most of the speculation has involved the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid, both of whom are expected to look to rejuvenate their midfield this summer. Bayern Munich have also publicly confirmed their interest in the youngster.
With Wirtz approaching the final two years of his current contract, there have been suggestions Leverkusen could be forced into a sale worth close to 150m (�126.1m).
Leverkusen, however, have not given up hope of retaining Wirtz's services for at least one more year and SPORT BILD state there is a confidence that he will agree to a new contract in exchange for a release clause which will facilitate a future exit.
Wirtz's maturity and composure relating to his career has impressed those at Leverkusen. The versatile star has often appeared to prioritise his personal improvement as a player over the chance to join an elite side immediately, and there is a belief that Wirtz recognises he is not yet emotionally prepared for life with the likes of Bayern, City or Madrid.
Conversations have been held between Wirtz, his parents, Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso and sporting director Simon Rolfes about the need for the 21-year-old to better control his emotions during games, with Wirtz agreeing that he needs to work on his mindset.
Leverkusen want to offer Wirtz the chance to continue growing by signing a new contract, but will not stand in the way of his desire to leave in future. A release clause of around 130m (�109.3m) is likely to be included in any new agreement to ensure Wirtz still has control of his career.
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