Manchester City are given a boost in pursuit of '£124m-rated' Florian Wirtz

Man City have been handed a boost as they look to bring Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz to the Etihad next summer.

The 21-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in world football and played a key role as Xabi Alonso led the club to the first Bundesliga title in the club's history last season.

Wirtz made 49 appearances for the club in all competitions in 2023-24, as Leverkusen also triumphed in the DFB-Pokal while setting a new European record for their 49 game unbeaten run.

In addition to his exploits at club level Wirtz also starred for Germany in Euro 2024 this summer, scoring twice as as Julian Nagelsmann's side reached the quarter-finals on home soil.

Wirtz's impressive performances have led to interest from several of Europe's top clubs, with Pep Guardiola in particular said to be a keen admirer.

Leverkusen are determined to keep hold of their prize asset that they are said to value at £124million but a recent development may force the club to reconsider.

Reports this month claimed Wirtz had agreed a deal to extend his stay at the BayArena, but club CEO Fernando Carro revealed that extension has not yet been agreed.

'I would have been happy if it had been true,' Carro told German outlet Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger.

'The club wants him to stay in Leverkusen at least until the 2026 World Cup, so it is sensible to extend the contract.'

Asked if the club would consider sanctioning a sale should a deal not be reached Carro added: 'It will be difficult, we have to be honest. It’s not impossible, but it’s not what we want.'

Leverkusen currently sit second in the Bundesliga table, four points behind Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich.

In 13 league starts this season Wirtz has provided 14 goal contributions, with seven goals and as many assists.

Arsenal, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have also been linked with a move for the playmaker.

Man City are said to view Wirtz as a potential long-term successor to Kevin De Bruyne.

The Belgian international, now 33, has been linked with a move away from the Premier League champions in recent months.

De Bruyne's contract at the Etihad Stadium is due to expire at the end of the season.

The midfielder insisted he had not held talks over an exit in the summer and has hinted at potential discussions over a new deal at Man City.