Florian Wirtz is reportedly on Newcastle United’s radar heading into the summer transfer window, but it appears that he has no plans to leave Bayer Leverkusen.
Newcastle were first linked with Wirtz shortly after the Saudi-backed takeover in 2021, and his name has now returned to the rumour mill following his return injury.
The Germany international was out of action for around nine months with a knee injury, but is back now and playing as if he has never been away.
Wirtz has been limited to 20 appearances for Leverkusen this season, where he has managed to score four goals and provide eight assists.
His ability in and around the box is incredible, and he has the x-factor that Newcastle are looking for in the transfer market. It has been claimed that the Magpies are admirers of the 20-year-old, with scouts recently travelling to Germany to watch him play.
With Champions League football potentially on the horizon, a playmaker like Wirtz would be a spectacular addition to Eddie Howe’s squad. However, it sounds like Wirtz sees his future at the BayArena for now.
Florian Wirtz plans to stay at Bayer Leverkusen
The youngster has spoke to CBS Sports ahead of the Europa League semi final against Roma, and was asked about a potential move away from Bayer Leverkusen.
“I’m here in Leverkusen,” he said.
“We have a good team. We have a young team. I have a lot of friends. I am just fully concentrating on my tasks here.
“I have some of my own personal goals to accomplish here in Leverkusen so I’m really not looking or thinking about other clubs and instead just proving out there that I can be the best player that I can be in each game and helping the team win games.”
He would be perfect for Newcastle
It is a great shame that Wirtz appears to stay Leverkusen, although at least it proves that there is still some loyalty in football.
There will come a time when Wirtz leaves, as he is one of the highest rated young players in Europe today. Even after his lengthy injury, he is still a star of the present and the future.
That is why he would be ideal for Newcastle, who are making a habit of signing young players from European teams who are good enough to thrive in the Premier League right now, but clearly have the potential to grow alongside the club.
Eddie Howe is looking for a creative midfielder who can offer something different to what he already has, which is why James Maddison is being targeted. Wirtz could fulfil a similar role, but it looks like he is not going to be available this summer.
That means that any plans to sign the German will be shelved, but don’t be surprised to see Wirtz linked with Newcastle again when he does decide to make a move.
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