Harry Kane's new attacking partner? Bayern Munich's chances of signing Florian Wirtz from rivals Bayer Leverkusen branded 'realistic' as Bundesliga leaders eye huge summer transfer

Florian Wirtz's transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Bayern Munich next summer was considered unlikely until now. However, theMunich-based Abendzeitung (AZ) now claim that the German giants have a 'realistic chance' of a sealing a move for the Germany star.

Bayern's hierarchy are currently working behind the scenes to lure the 21-year-old away from their Bundesliga rivals in the next few months, with the aim of completing the transfer this summer.

There are still doubts regarding a potential move for Wirtz in 2025, as questions linger over whether joining a club as prestigious as Bayern is the right step. Initially, a transfer was expected to happen in 2026, with Wirtz reportedly aiming to stay at Leverkusen to prepare for the 2026 World Cup in familiar surroundings. Xabi Alonso's side are reportedly working on a contract extension for Wirtz with improved pay, including an exit clause from 2026.

If a move occurs before then, the transfer fee is expected to be at least €150 million, which Bayern Munich may struggle to afford, especially given their reduced finances, as highlighted by honorary president Uli Hoeness. Hoeness is leading Bayern’s pursuit of Wirtz and has expressed a desire to break the €100 million mark for the transfer. Meanwhile, Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge praised Wirtz as "Germany’s best player," despite Jamal Musiala's recent mega-contract.

Former Bayern player Matthaus drew a connection to the initially withdrawn contract offer for Joshua Kimmich. If the midfielder leaves, Bayern would save a lot of money. "€100 million less for Kimmich could mean €100 million more for a possible transfer of Wirtz," wrote Matthaus in a recent column for Sky Sport Germany.

Leroy Sane's contract also expires in the summer, and his future will probably not be decided until the end of the season. The same goes for Eric Dier. On the other hand, Kingsley Coman, Sacha Boey and Leon Goretzka are also considered potential sales and could bring in money for a Wirtz transfer.

Wirtz and Bayern will face each other at least twice more before a final decision is made, in the Champions League Round of 16. The first leg in Munich is on Wednesday, March 5, with the second leg the following Tuesday, March 11.