Manchester City's Search for Kevin De Bruyne's Replacement

Manchester City have identified Florian Wirtz, the 21-year-old Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder, as their top target to replace the departing Kevin De Bruyne. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Wirtz is seen as the "dream" signing for City, though Leverkusen are determined to keep him with a new contract that includes a 2026 release clause.

Why Wirtz?

• Creative playmaker: Wirtz has been one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers, with 12 goals and 15 assists in all competitions this season.
• Versatility: Can operate as a No. 10, winger, or false nine.
• Long-term potential: At just 21, he fits City’s strategy of investing in youth.

However, City could face competition from Bayern Munich, who are also keen on the German international.

Liverpool’s Interest in Ronald Araújo

Meanwhile, Liverpool are reportedly keeping tabs on Barcelona center-back Ronald Araújo (26). Relevo suggests that while Araújo is happy at Barcelona, the Reds could explore a swap deal involving Luis Díaz.

Other Major Transfer Rumors

1. Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace) – Linked with Man Utd, Nottingham Forest, Bayern, and Juventus after a strong season (13 PL goals).
2. Randal Kolo Muani (PSG/Juventus loan) – Juventus may not sign him permanently due to poor form.
3. Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) – Man City considering a £40m move for the rising star.
4. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) – Both Liverpool and Man City are monitoring the 17-year-old sensation.

Expert Analysis

"Wirtz is the closest like-for-like replacement for De Bruyne in Europe right now," said Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher. "But City may have to break their transfer record to land him."

Latest Done Deals

Keep an Eye On

• Aston Villa tracking Noni Madueke (Chelsea).
• Arsenal planning five summer signings under new sporting director Andrea Berta.

For more transfer updates, follow our summer window tracker.