Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly fixated on a player who is generating significant interest across Europe. The Gunners have had a strong start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, earning 11 points from 15, including a vital draw against reigning champions Manchester City, even while down to ten men.
If they maintain this form, Arsenal could contend for the title for a third consecutive year, having narrowly missed out to City in both 2022/23 and last season. Arteta is said to believe that one specific player could help them secure their first Premier League title in 20 years.
According to TBR Football, Arteta is a keen admirer of Florian Wirtz, with Arsenal monitoring his situation at Bayer Leverkusen. The German midfielder played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s impressive 2023/24 season, which saw them win the Bundesliga, the DFB-Pokal, and finish as runners-up in the Europa League.
However, both Wirtz and manager Xabi Alonso are expected to leave the club next summer, making Arsenal the frontrunners to sign him. Christian Falk, head of football for BILD, confirmed on X that Wirtz aims to depart the Bundesliga club in 2025, with Arsenal expressing interest.
Wirtz’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2027, meaning the club is likely to demand a hefty transfer fee. Reports suggest Leverkusen could ask for around £125 million or €150 million for the talented midfielder.
Arsenal isn’t alone in their pursuit; Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester City are also eyeing Wirtz, who has started the 2024/25 season impressively, scoring six goals and providing one assist in just five matches across the Bundesliga and Champio
ns League.
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