Revealed: Florian Wirtz’s ‘key concern over Pep Guardiola that led him to snub Man City for Liverpool’

• Florian Wirtz is set to join Liverpool after previously being linked with Man City
• He reportedly opted not to join City due to a concern involving Pep Guardiola
• LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Is Ruben Amorim too honest?

By SAM BROOKES

A key factor behind Florian Wirtz’s decision to choose a move to Liverpool over Manchester City has been revealed by a report in Germany.

Wirtz, 22, has become one of the most sought-after players in world football in recent months, with Liverpool, City and Bayern Munich all interested in signing the £126m-rated star.

City identified Wirtz as their top summer target and held talks with his representatives, but it emerged over the weekend that the attacking midfielder is set to join Liverpool instead.

According to Bild, Wirtz opted against a move to City due to concerns over the long-term future of Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola is widely regarded as the best manager of his generation and Wirtz had been keen to play under him, but the Spaniard only has two years remaining on his City contract.

He signed a new deal earlier this season to commit his future to City until 2027, but has since hinted that he will leave when his current contract ends to take a break from the game.

Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz is expected to join Liverpool this summer

He was linked with Man City, but is reportedly concerned that Pep Guardiola could leave the club soon

Arne Slot is set to land one of his key targets as he aims to strengthen his squad this summer

With this in mind, Wirtz has decided that he wants to join a club with a more stable management structure.

Arne Slot only arrived at Anfield last summer and delivered the Premier League title in his first season.

His contract is also due to expire in 2027, but is likely to be extended following his stunning first campaign on Merseyside.

Bild’s report also states that Wirtz has given the green light to Liverpool due to the unique atmosphere created by the fans and the club’s stature.

Liverpool’s Premier League triumph was their 20th top-flight title, drawing them level with Manchester United. The Reds have also won six European Cups to United’s three.

Liverpool are expected to proceed swiftly with wrapping up a deal for Wirtz, with the transfer window due to open on Sunday.

They are closing in on signing Wirtz’s Bayer Leverkusen team-mate Jeremie Frimpong for £29.5m to provide competition for Conor Bradley following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure, while Liverpool are also keen on Bournemouth left back Milos Kerkez.

:
Revealed: Florian Wirtz’s ‘key concern over Pep Guardiola that led him to snub Man City for Liverpool’

***
Read more at DailyMail.co.uk