Liverpool are making significant moves in the transfer market this summer, aiming to bolster their squad after clinching the Premier League title. Several high-profile players have been linked with a move to Anfield, with some deals appearing closer to completion than others. Here's a breakdown of the latest news surrounding Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.
Florian Wirtz is seemingly on the verge of becoming a Liverpool player. Reports indicate that the Reds have agreed to a British-record transfer fee of £116 million with Bayer Leverkusen for the 22-year-old German international. The deal is structured with a base fee of £100 million plus £16.5 million in potential add-ons. Wirtz is expected to undergo a medical this week, with an official announcement planned for Friday. Sky Germany reports that Wirtz chose Liverpool over Bayern Munich and Manchester City, drawn in by Arne Slot's tactical plans. Furthermore, it's reported that Liverpool will pay Wirtz's parents, who manage his career, a substantial £8.55 million as part of the deal. Wirtz himself has hinted at the move on social media, posting a picture with Jeremie Frimpong, who has already joined Liverpool from Leverkusen.
Milos Kerkez, the Bournemouth left-back, appears to be another likely addition to Liverpool's squad. The 21-year-old Hungarian international has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Reds, and his father has stated that the transfer is "basically a done deal." While Bournemouth have signed Adrien Truffert from Rennes, suggesting they are preparing for Kerkez's departure, the clubs are still negotiating the final details of the transfer fee. Bournemouth are said to value Kerkez at £45 million, but Liverpool are hoping to negotiate a lower price. Kerkez is seen as a potential long-term successor to Andy Robertson, who has attracted interest from Atletico Madrid. Kerkez himself has seemingly confirmed the move by greeting Liverpool fans on a live stream and posing with a Liverpool supporter group flag.
Alexander Isak, the Newcastle United striker, has emerged as a "dream target" for Liverpool as they look to add a clinical No.9 to their ranks. The 25-year-old Swede has been in impressive form, scoring 27 goals in 42 appearances last season. However, Newcastle are reportedly reluctant to sell and have placed a hefty £150 million price tag on Isak. This fee would eclipse the British transfer record, even surpassing the amount Liverpool are set to pay for Wirtz. Despite the high asking price, reports suggest that Liverpool are seriously considering a move for Isak, with some suggesting they may need to sell Darwin Nunez to fund the transfer. Isak has previously spoken positively about playing at Anfield, calling it one of the best stadiums he has played in and expressing his enjoyment of matches against Liverpool.
Hugo Ekitike, the Eintracht Frankfurt forward, is being considered as an alternative to Isak. The 22-year-old Frenchman scored 22 goals last season and is valued at around £85 million, a significantly lower fee than Isak. However, Liverpool face competition from Manchester United and Chelsea for his signature. Ekitike has also previously stated that Manchester United was his "favorite club" as a child, potentially giving them an advantage in the pursuit. Despite the interest in Ekitike, some fans believe Liverpool should stick with Darwin Nunez and focus on bringing in a playmaker to improve his goalscoring opportunities.
