Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly fixated on securing the services of Bayer Leverkusenโs Florian Wirtz, a rising star attracting attention from top clubs across Europe.
The Gunners have begun the 2024/25 Premier League season strongly, collecting 11 points from five matches, including a crucial draw against Manchester City.
Arteta believes Wirtz could be the key player to help Arsenal secure their first Premier League title in 20 years, after narrowly missing out in the last two seasons.
Wirtz played a central role in Bayer Leverkusenโs impressive 2023/24 season, where they won the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal and finished as Europa League runners-up. Despite this success, it is believed both Wirtz and manager Xabi Alonso are likely to leave the club next summer.
Arsenal are considered frontrunners to sign the German midfielder, with other clubs like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester City also showing interest.
With Wirtzโs contract at Leverkusen running until 2027, the German champions are expected to demand a significant transfer feeโpotentially around ยฃ125 million to โฌ150 million. The 21-year-old has started the current season in blistering form, scoring six goals and providing one assist in just five matches across the Bundesliga and Champions League, making him one of Europeโs most sought-after talents.