Bayern Munich view Arsenal €125m transfer target as ‘absolute dream’ signing

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The Gunners are already up against Manchester City in their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking midfielder, with a move anticipated at the end of the campaign.

Arsenal are “fully committed” in their efforts to persuade the 21-year-old to make north London his next home, though the challenge will be far from simple.

Based on recent updates from Sky in Germany, Wirtz continues to be Bayern’s “absolute dream target” for the approaching summer window.

It’s believed that Bayern have already engaged in discussions with Wirtz’s camp and are “working in the background” to line up a potential transfer.

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Wirtz was instrumental in Leverkusen’s domestic double last season under Xabi Alonso and has continued to impress this season.

Leverkusen’s top brass are aiming to get Wirtz to commit to an extended contract ahead of the summer market — one that would secure him at the club until 2027 — though he is currently hesitant. Leverkusen are also attempting to insert a €125 million (£104.3m) release clause, which would become active starting in summer 2026.

Given that both Arsenal and City are keen on acquiring Wirtz, Bayern icon Franck Ribery has encouraged his former club to go all-in to sign the youngster.

**”If there’s any possibility, Bayern must sign Florian Wirtz,”** Ribery recently told German outlet **BILD**.

**”Musiala and Wirtz can play very well together in a team. They’re alike because they both have incredible talent.**

**”But they’re not alike in their playing style. Good footballers always get along on the pitch. Maybe FC Bayern should adjust their system a bit, away from the traditional wingers.**

**”I would play with a true No.9 and behind him in the half spaces with Wirtz and Musiala, a little bit further inside. Then the wings will still be open for strong attacking full-backs. That could work very well.”**

If Wirtz decides against extending his contract, there would be no release clause in place — though it is expected that Leverkusen would still opt to cash in, seeking a fee in the region of €150 million (£125.2m).