Reports suggest Germany international Florian Wirtz could be seen as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, if the 37-year-old striker decides to leave Old Trafford for a second time in his career this summer.
There has been non-stop speculation linking Ronaldo with a premature exit from his United contract, although new manager Erik ten Hag has been clear that the veteran goalscorer is part of his plans for the foreseeable future.
But now, according to Media Foot, Manchester United have been linked with Bayer Leverkusen attacker Florian Wirtz.
Wirtz has played in a false nine at times, but we could also see Bruno Fernandes play that role in Ronaldo’s absence next season. I don’t think there is a rush to sign a player like this and United want to be sure they’re signing the right personnel for the future.
The 19-year-old is certainly one to keep an eye on, while the report states that United have been tracking him for the past two years. He scored three goals and registered four assists in the Champions League last season, not to forget he is now getting minutes in the Germany national team.
In the Bundesliga, Wirtz recorded seven goals and 10 assists, so it wouldn’t surprise me if he was a player Ten Hag knew a bit about. That interest could intensify if he has another impressive season in the German top-flight.
However, as a potential replacement for Ronaldo, we can’t assess the situation properly without stressing that United do not want to worry about losing for at least another year.
It was not part of Ten Hag’s transfer plans to be on the lookout for a new goalscorer this summer but that will obviously change if Ronaldo departs.
