Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Bayer Leverkusen attacker Florian Wirtz as a possible replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
According to Media Foot Marseille, Manchester United have started drawing a shortlist of players to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, who is nearing an Old Trafford exit. The Red Devils have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s highly-rated attacker Florian Wirtz among the options.
Ronaldo has been flirting with a potential exit from Manchester United for the second time following the club’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. He was initially said to be ready to honour his contract, which had a year remaining on it, with the Red Devils and show faith in new manager Erik ten Hag.
However, new updates have reported the Portuguese international is pushing for an exit. The 37-year-old has not reported for pre-season training and is not part of the club’s touring party to Thailand.
As things stand, it seems clear that the former Real Madrid star is trying to leave the club for the second time after his first departure in 2009. The likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, and Chelsea have emerged as potential destinations.
The latest reports have left Manchester United desperately looking for options, while they continue to pay attention to strengthening other positions as well. Bayer Leverkusen’s 19-year-old attacker Florian Wirtz has emerged as a transfer target.
The teenage sensation joined the Bundesliga club from FC Koln in 2019 and has grown into an important component of their setup. In a little over two seasons, Wirtz has made 78 appearances for Die Werkself, scoring 19 times and assisting 22 goals.
The German international is adept at playing across the frontline, something which would excite the Manchester United supporters. But the Red Devils are not the only club exploring the possibility of getting the 19-year-old attacking prospect on board.
Barcelona have shown interest in Wirtz and will try to sign him during the 2023 summer transfer window. The German international has himself accepted that a potential move to Camp Nou excites him, handing the Blaugrana a boost in their pursuit of the attacker. But it will be interesting to see if Manchester United can overcome the challenge of the other prospective suitors to land Wirtz if Ronaldo leaves.
