The reasons for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz snubbing Manchester City in favour of a transfer to Liverpool have been revealed.

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Playmaker ready to leave LeverkusenCould replace De Bruyne at the EtihadReady to make move to MerseysideFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

The 22-year-old Germany international has become one of the hottest properties in world football. He is ready to take on a new challenge in the summer of 2025 after becoming a Bundesliga title winner and gracing the Champions League at Leverkusen.

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Big-spending sides in the Premier League have been scrambling to put a deal in place for the £126 million-rated ($170m) playmaker. With Kevin De Bruyne leaving City as a free agent, many viewed Wirtz as the perfect replacement in Manchester.

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He is, however, reported to be edging closer to sealing a switch to Anfield. According to , that is because Wirtz has concerns over the long-term future of City boss Pep Guardiola – who has said that he will leave the Etihad Stadium when his contract expires in 2027.

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Wirtz wants more stable surroundings as he unlocks further potential in his game, which has led to him leaning towards newly-crowned Premier League champions Liverpool. Arne Slot is also working on a deal until 2027 there, but is expected to agree an extension if more major silverware makes its way to Merseyside.