Update: Pep Guardiola’s five-man shortlist as £150m transfer set to be ‘complicated by player’s dad’ News

Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz is believed to be Manchester City’s top target this summer, however with a move now in the balance, we look at who could move to the Etihad instead of the German international

Manchester City target Florian Wirtz seems to be leaning towards a move to German giants, Bayern Munich. Reports suggest that City are prepared to meet Bayer Leverkusen’s £150million asking price and have even discussed a £21m-per-year salary with the talented attacking midfielder.

However, while German publication BILD has reported that Pep Guardiola has communicated to the player how he would fit into his squad, it’s alleged that Wirtz’s father has stated his son’s preference for a move to Leverkusen’s title rivals.

At 21, Wirtz has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in European football following his performances with Leverkusen. His acquisition by City, if they can still secure a deal, would be a significant show of ambition.

The current season hasn’t been a standout one for the Sky Blues, who as reigning champions find themselves 21 points behind league leaders Liverpool. With the Wirtz transfer now uncertain and club legend Kevin De Bruyne also set to leave, we examine five potential signings that Guardiola could make as fans prepare for a summer of transformation at the Etihad.

Rayan Cherki

The Lyon star has scored 11 goals this season, helping Lyon reach the Europa League semi-finals. He has been linked with several top clubs, but in an interesting twist, could be available for as little as £20million, according to M.E.N sources.

Cherki is known for his versatility across the forward line and ambidexterity, and was even lauded by Thierry Henry for his exceptional skill. “I have never seen a player in history who dribbles as quickly as him, with both feet,” the Arsenal legend said.

Mohammas Kudus

West Ham have hinted that they might be willing to part ways with their 24-year-old attacking midfielder this summer. Despite Kudus having a somewhat inconsistent season at the London Stadium, his peak performances have not gone unnoticed, sparking interest from the likes of Liverpool, reports the Mirror. To secure Kudus, City would likely need to act on a reported £85m release clause.

Morgan Gibbs-White

City’s interest in Morgan Gibbs-White appears to be intensifying with the club reportedly considering him as a successor to De Bruyne. Now an England international, Gibbs-White has been pivotal in Nuno Espirito Santo’s side’s pursuit of the Champions League places this season.

However Nottingham Forest are keen to negotiate a new deal, according to The Athletic. Gibbs-White, who has frequently donned the captain’s armband this season, is also reportedly on the radar of Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Bruno Guimaraes

Although not a traditional attacking midfielder, Guimaraes has played a key role in Newcastle’s successful season, proving crucial in Eddie Howe’s Carabao Cup triumph. Initially starting as a defensive midfielder for the Magpies, Guimaraes has demonstrated his versatility by taking on a more advanced role, contributing four goals and six assists this season.

It’s understood that a £100million release clause has been included in his contract to deter interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.

Xavi Simons

The 21-year-old Dutch international is reportedly being monitored by United, Bayern and Liverpool. However, according to the Daily Mail, City are also keeping tabs on the Red Bull Leipzig star, who can function as an attacking midfielder or winger.

With 42 goals already to his name in his brief career, Simons has scored four times for his country, including a goal against England in the Euro 2024 semi-final.