Florian Wirtz, Liverpool's high-profile summer signing, has publicly stated that he remains unconcerned by the hefty price tag attached to his move from Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who arrived at Anfield for an initial £100 million, a fee that could potentially rise to £116 million with add-ons, potentially making him the most expensive British transfer ever, is focused solely on his performance on the pitch.
Wirtz's comments came after he made his first appearance at Anfield in a friendly match against Athletic Bilbao on Monday. Despite the significant investment Liverpool has made in him, Wirtz insists that the financial aspects of the transfer are irrelevant to his approach to the game. "I don't think about it," he stated. "I just want to play football and how much money the clubs pay between each other, it doesn't matter".
Liverpool's acquisition of Wirtz is part of a significant summer spending spree, exceeding £250 million, to bring in new talent. Other notable additions include Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong (also from Bayer Leverkusen), Milos Kerkez and Giorgi Mamardashvili. The club also reportedly made a substantial bid for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, which was rejected. Liverpool's ability to fund the Wirtz deal has been made possible by frugal spending in previous transfer windows.
Wirtz's arrival is seen as a key component in Liverpool's evolving tactical setup under Arne Slot. With Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure to Real Madrid, Wirtz is expected to fill the creative void, operating as a central hub in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Slot has highlighted Wirtz's potential to compensate for Alexander-Arnold's creativity, despite playing in a different position.
Wirtz himself is eager to embrace the challenge of playing in the Premier League. He acknowledged the differences compared to the Bundesliga, noting the increased intensity and physicality. "There are some differences to Germany, but I think there is also something I can learn and make me better, so I am really looking forward to it," he said. He also stated that he needs freedom on the pitch and the manager gives that to him.
The German international is also relishing the opportunity to link up with new teammate Hugo Ekitike, who also made his Anfield debut in the same friendly. Wirtz has been impressed by Ekitike's abilities and anticipates a successful partnership. He aims to create chances and improve the team's overall performance, with the ultimate goal of winning the Premier League title again. "I just try to create chances and also work against the ball, so I can also run a lot, so bring this to the team and then with the ball I hope I can make the team better by bringing my team-mates into better situations,” Wirtz explained.
Despite interest from other top European clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Wirtz chose Liverpool, enticed by Arne Slot's plans for him. He believes he can fit well into the team's system and contribute to their success.
As Wirtz prepares for his first Premier League season, he remains focused on his performance and contributing to the team's success, unburdened by the weight of his transfer fee. The young midfielder is determined to make his mark at Anfield and help Liverpool achieve their goals.
