Manchester City are gearing up to splash the cash in the upcoming transfer window. The big shock for fans came with the confirmation that Kevin De Bruyne will be leaving at the end of the season — a club legend who's defined an era in midfield. And now, in search of a worthy replacement, the Citizens have set their sights on Florian Wirtz, the rising star at Bayer Leverkusen.

Wirtz is Pep's top pick

According to reports from Sky Sports Germany and the British outlet Mirror, Pep Guardiola's side is ready to shell out as much as $130 million for the young German — a fee that would make him one of the most expensive signings in the club’s history. They’re also prepared to offer him a long-term deal with superstar wages, hoping to make him the creative heartbeat of City's next generation.

De Bruyne's departure wasn’t a total surprise, but it hit hard emotionally. In a heartfelt letter shared on social media, the Belgian said it was “time to say goodbye” and that City would always be home. “Like it or not, it’s time to move on,” wrote the midfielder, who has won everything possible with the club. Now, the focus is on starting a new chapter.

Madrid in the rear-view mirror?

Meanwhile, Wirtz has been lighting up Europe this season. With 15 goals and 13 assists in 39 appearances, the German international has been instrumental for Bayer Leverkusen, even after missing part of the campaign due to an ankle ligament injury. His skill, football IQ, and maturity have made him a key figure for Xabi Alonso, and now he’s become Guardiola's top priority.

Real Madrid is also keeping an eye on Wirtz, especially if Xabi Alonso eventually takes over as head coach at the Bernabéu. But over at Valdebebas, they’re reportedly not willing to match the numbers City are prepared to offer — which could give the Premier League side the upper hand in this race.

Leverkusen not ruling anything out

While Bayer Leverkusen president Fernando Carro has publicly claimed that "Wirtz is not for sale," he also admitted that in football, every player has a price — if the offer is big enough. And Manchester City seem ready to put that to the test. The post-De Bruyne rebuild is officially underway, and Florian Wirtz could be the cornerstone of that new era.