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Real Madrid have amplified their monitoring of Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, as per a report from ESPN. This development comes amidst concerns over the La Liga champions’ lack of creativity in midfield following the retirement of Toni Kroos.
As is well-established by now, Real Madrid are considering bolstering their defence during the January transfer window, and are keeping a close eye on Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Stepping up interest in Wirtz
However, several voices within the club have also highlighted the need to sign a ball-playing midfielder, after Los Blancos decided not to pursue a Kroos replacement in the summer.
A source told ESPN that securing a signing like Wirtz in January would be challenging, given the substantial transfer fee Bayer Leverkusen would demand.
Nevertheless, the reigning Spanish and European champions intend to maintain a close watch on the German international with the aim of signing him next summer, viewing him as an intriguing prospect due to his age, profile and potential.
At 21 years old, Wirtz has already been a crucial part of a Bayer Leverkusen team – coached by Xabi Alonso – that won a Bundesliga and cup double last season.
Need for a creative presence
Sources close to Real Madrid’s coaching staff have informed ESPN that they are dissatisfied with the composition of the midfield.
The belief within the club is that a player with Wirtz’s skillset would offer a distinct profile compared to the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde.
Nonetheless, they believe the current squad, including veteran Luka Modric, Dani Ceballos and Arda Guler, can still contribute to improved performance in the coming months.
Real Madrid have been monitoring Wirtz since last season, and their tracking has intensified in recent months.
The La Liga champions have received positive reports on the German international, and now want to observe how he develops in an elite competition like the Champions League, given that last season he only featured in the Europa League.
Real Madrid value the balance Wirtz offers Leverkusen, as well as his ability to penetrate the opposition penalty box.
In 10 Bundesliga games this season, he has scored four goals and provided two assists, while in the Champions League, he has scored three goals in four games.