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VOTE: Who is the best signing ahead of 2026/27?

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SokaLive

12 Aug 2026, 13:05

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Manchester United have made an approach for Florian Wirtz ahead of the 2026/27 season, sources close to the club suggest. The Bayer Leverkusen winger, 21, has emerged as a priority target as the Old Trafford hierarchy seeks to bolster their attacking options. Wirtz scored 18 goals and provided 13 assists in the Bundesliga last season, establishing himself as one of Europe's most prolific young talents following Leverkusen's domestic double triumph under Xabi Alonso.

Wirtz's potential arrival would represent a statement of intent from United, who finished eighth in the Premier League this season and missed European qualification. The German international has already attracted interest from elite clubs across the continent, yet United's financial muscle and project appeal hold significant sway. A comparable precedent emerged when Barcelona pursued Ousmane Dembélé in 2017, demonstrating how top-tier clubs prioritise young, ball-carrying wingers capable of transforming their attacking play during crucial rebuild phases.

Negotiations remain preliminary, with Leverkusen unlikely to sanction a departure without substantial investment. Wirtz made 42 appearances across all competitions last term and represents a generational talent; any deal would likely exceed £100 million, positioning it amongst the Premier League's costliest transfers. United's Champions League ambitions for 2026/27 depend heavily on securing elite talent, and Wirtz's profile aligns perfectly with their need for creative width and goal-scoring threat.