Liverpool Football Club has reportedly agreed to a club-record deal to sign Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz. The transfer is expected to be completed next week, pending a medical examination and the completion of media duties after Wirtz returns from his holiday.
Reports suggest that a verbal agreement between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen was reached earlier in the week, with the deal potentially worth up to €150 million (£127.6m). While initial reports were downplayed by sources close to the club, there is now growing anticipation that the transfer will be finalized in the coming days. Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg and transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano have both indicated that the move will be completed when Wirtz returns from his post-season break. Plettenberg noted that the medical is scheduled for "next week at the latest," along with the contract signing and media obligations.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the exact transfer fee. Some English media outlets, reportedly briefed by Liverpool, claim the fee is up to £116 million (€136.3m), consisting of a guaranteed £100 million with £16 million in potential add-ons. German media sources, including kicker and BILD, suggest a higher figure of €140 million (£119m), including easily achievable add-ons, plus an additional €10 million (£8.5m) if certain targets, such as winning the Champions League, are met.
Despite the discrepancies in the reported figures, the consensus is that Liverpool are securing one of Europe's most promising talents. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stated that the agreement is "100 percent agreed," and that Wirtz can be considered a Liverpool player. He cautioned fans that the formalization of the deal may take some time, as Wirtz is currently on holiday and the involved parties are exchanging documents and preparing contracts.
The acquisition of Wirtz is seen as a significant statement of intent by Liverpool, signaling a new era under Arne Slot. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is highly regarded for his creativity, technical ability, and versatility. He primarily plays as a No. 10 but can also operate effectively on the wings. Last season, Wirtz contributed 16 goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances for Leverkusen, who finished second in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool's pursuit of Wirtz was not without competition. Bayern Munich were also reportedly interested in the player, but their sporting director, Max Eberl, acknowledged that they could not match Liverpool's financial offer. Wirtz himself had reservations about joining Manchester City due to concerns about Pep Guardiola's future with the club.
Wirtz's arrival at Anfield follows the signing of his former Leverkusen teammate, Jeremie Frimpong, who joined Liverpool in a £29.5 million deal. The club is also reportedly targeting Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez. These acquisitions suggest a significant overhaul of the squad as Arne Slot looks to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
The transfer of Florian Wirtz to Liverpool is generating considerable excitement among fans, with many viewing it as a sign of the club's ambition to compete for major trophies. The player's talent and potential, combined with Liverpool's rich history and passionate fanbase, could make for a successful partnership in the years to come.
