Liverpool are demonstrating serious intent in the summer transfer window, with their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz reportedly gaining significant momentum. Having all but secured Jeremie Frimpong as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s replacement, the Reds are now setting their sights on an even more ambitious target.
Florian Wirtz has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted talents over the past two seasons, playing a pivotal role in Xabi Alonso’s invincible Bayer Leverkusen side. His exceptional performances saw him crowned the Bundesliga Player of the Season, and he has contributed an astonishing 69 goal involvements across all competitions in the last two campaigns. Currently ranked at no.3 in FourFourTwo’s list of the best attacking midfielders globally, Wirtz is at the center of a high-stakes transfer saga involving both Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Recent updates from German outlets underscore the strength of Liverpool’s interest. Kicker suggests that Bayern Munich “fear Liverpool” in the battle for Wirtz’s signature, indicating that both clubs are prepared to go all out to secure him for the upcoming season. The report also highlights that a meeting held last week between Wirtz, his family, and Liverpool representatives left a highly positive impression.
Further solidifying Liverpool’s commitment, reliable journalist Christian Falk has reported that Michael Edwards, Liverpool’s chief executive of football, held a crucial meeting with Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club’s owners, to secure the necessary funds for the German international’s transfer.
Bayer Leverkusen value their academy graduate at a staggering €150 million (£126 million). This valuation would not only shatter Liverpool’s existing transfer record but also establish a new Premier League record, surpassing Enzo Fernandez’s €121 million move. Virgil van Dijk currently holds the record as Liverpool’s most expensive player.
Bayern Munich reportedly remains confident in their chances of signing Wirtz, primarily due to the financial implications of such a deal for Liverpool. Even a slightly reduced fee would represent a significant shift in Liverpool’s historical transfer policy. While a move to other top clubs remains a possibility, reports suggest that Manchester City have withdrawn from the race, and Real Madrid will not be making a move for the German this summer.
The ultimate destination for Wirtz remains uncertain. He has reportedly made a promise to Bayern Munich that he will join them, yet the recent meeting with Liverpool may have swayed his decision. Regardless of where he ends up, his signing will undoubtedly be a major statement of intent. For Liverpool, it would mean adding world-class quality to an already exceptional midfield. For Bayern, it would create a formidable partnership with Jamal Musiala at the club level, a prospect that seems a natural fit for the German champions.