“Everything could fall into place” - Michael Reschke backs Real Madrid to beat Manchester United and Arsenal to sign Bundesliga star
Former Bayern Munich technical director Michael Reschke has tipped Real Madrid to beat Arsenal and Manchester United to the signing of Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz. It is Football Transfers who have linked the Germany international with a move to the Emirates (via CaughtOffSide).
However, Reschke claims that the Spanish giants are more likely to get hold of a talent like Wirtz. Should he move to Santiago Bernabeu, he could operate as the creative midfielder and allow Jude Bellingham to play in the box-to-box role behind him.
Speaking about Wirtz's future with Sky Germany, Reschke said (via CaughtOffSide):
"My personal belief is that Wirtz will sign for Real Madrid. I think Carlo Ancelotti will be replaced by a certain Spaniard working in the Bundesliga and then it's certainly possible that he will take his favorite player with him. My feeling is that everything could fall into place."
It seems as though Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is being referred to in these comments. However, the 42-year-old is contracted with his current employers till the summer of 2026, and Wirtz himself is tied down for three more years.
Of course, if the 21-year-old midfielder decides to move to Spain over Arsenal, it wouldn't be a huge blow for Mikel Arteta and Co. Martin Odegaard has established himself as one of the best playmakers in the league and currently occupies the number 10 position at the Emirates.
Meanwhile, Manchester United also have captain Bruno Fernandes to fill in the number 10 space. Therefore, the need for a creative midfielder will not be a top priority at these English clubs.
Regardless, Wirtz is a class act who has made 161 appearances for his club, bagging 47 goals and 51 assists.
Real Madrid to turn to signing Manchester United-linked player with Arsenal star set to remain at the Emirates - Reports
Real Madrid have been linked with Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, a player who has established himself as a top defender in Europe. However, with the France international set to remain at the Emirates, Los Blancos are looking elsewhere.
The Express claims that Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is now an option at the Santiago Bernabeu. Earlier this year, the Englishman was also linked with a move to Manchester United.
However, this deal did not go through, with the Red Devils failing to meet the Toffees' £75 million asking price. The 22-year-old still has three years left on his contract at Goodison Park.