Real Madrid 'step up pursuit' of leading Bundesliga playmaker | OneFootball

Real Madrid are accelerating a transfer move for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz having grown concerned by a lack of creativity following Toni Kroos' retirement, according to a report.

Wirtz lit up the Bundesliga last season as Xabi Alonso's side stormed to a memorable title triumph in Germany, also scooping the DFB-Pokal after scoring 18 goals in all competitions.

The 21-year-old also played for Germany during Euro 2024, scoring against Scotland and Spain as the hosts were eliminated at the quarter-final stage.

Madrid's interest in Wirtz has been known since the summer. In June, the La Liga and Champions League holders were said to be outlining a 'pact' to bring in the attacking midfielder during the 2025 summer transfer window and he was later described as a replacement for stalwart Luka Modric, who is still at the Bernabeu at the ripe old age of 39.

Wirtz impressed in Leverkusen's Bundesliga title win / Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/GettyImages

Now, ESPN report Madrid have 'stepped up' their interest in the German title winner as a potential point of difference compared to the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde.

They add Madrid's coaching staff are unhappy with the current make-up of their midfield but want to see how Wirtz performs at the elite Champions League level, having only played in the Europa League last term.

However, there is still a belief that the current options at manager Carlo Ancelotti's disposal, including fringe figures like Dani Ceballos and Arda Guler, can play roles in a positive change of fortunes for the club in the coming months.

Despite adding Kylian Mbappe to their squad over the summer, Los Blancos have slipped six points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona with a game in hand and have lost two of their four Champions League outings.