Liverpool have entered advanced negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Florian Wirtz. The Premier League champions have submitted a second offer for the 22-year-old, valued at around £109 million, including add-ons. This bid, if accepted, would make Wirtz Liverpool’s record signing. The German playmaker has expressed a clear desire to join Liverpool, turning down approaches from Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
The Secret Meeting That Changed Everything
Bayern Munich made a significant push to sign Florian Wirtz. On May 18, a secret meeting took place in Munich between Wirtz and Bayern’s hierarchy. Vincent Kompany, Bayern’s new manager, met Wirtz for an hour at a hotel, hoping to convince him to stay in Germany. Despite Bayern’s efforts and the club’s status, Wirtz left the meeting unconvinced. He reportedly felt more captivated by Liverpool’s project and manager Arne Slot.
Arne Slot’s Decisive Promise
Liverpool’s new head coach, Arne Slot, played a pivotal role in swaying Florian Wirtz. Slot promised Wirtz “ownership of the number 10 role” at Anfield, a guarantee he could not get at Bayern due to competition from Jamal Musiala. This promise assured Wirtz of a starring role in his preferred position. The prospect of being Liverpool’s main playmaker proved irresistible for the young German.
Bayern Munich’s Response and Public Statement
After Wirtz’s decision became clear, Bayern Munich released a statement through chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen6. Dreesen emphasized Bayern’s stature and global appeal, noting that not every player will choose to join them. He highlighted Bayern’s participation in the Club World Cup, indirectly pointing out Liverpool’s absence from the tournament. Dreesen’s remarks reflected Bayern’s frustration at missing out on their top target while reaffirming the club’s elite status in European football.
Negotiations and Transfer Details
Bayer Leverkusen has not yet accepted Liverpool’s second bid for Florian Wirtz, but both clubs are optimistic about reaching an agreement soon. Leverkusen are reportedly happy with the fee, but negotiations continue over payment structure and add-ons. Wirtz is expected to sign a five-year contract at Anfield once the clubs finalize the deal.
Wirtz’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2027, but his desire to join Liverpool has accelerated talks. He has already visited the northwest of England to look for potential residences, signalling his commitment to the move.
Wirtz’s Impact and Recent Form
Florian Wirtz is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. He played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win in the 2023-24 season, earning Bundesliga Player of the Season honours with 18 goals and 20 assists. In the following campaign, he continued to impress with 16 goals and 15 assists, maintaining his status as a top-tier playmaker.
Wirtz made his senior debut for Leverkusen at 17 and has since scored 57 goals in 197 appearances for the club. He has also become a regular for the German national team, with six goals in 29 caps.
Liverpool’s Ambition and Squad Evolution
Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz signals their intent to remain at the top of English football. After winning the Premier League title, the club is making strategic moves to strengthen key positions. Wirtz is seen as the ideal candidate to take over the number 10 role, providing creativity and an attacking threat behind the forwards. His arrival could lead to changes in the roles of players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones, who have shared playmaking duties.
Liverpool are also targeting other signings, including Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, as they look to refresh the squad for the long term.
The Transfer’s Broader Significance
The Florian Wirtz transfer saga has highlighted Liverpool’s growing appeal to top talents across Europe. The club’s clear vision, ambitious project, and the influence of Arne Slot have set them apart from rivals like Bayern Munich. Wirtz’s decision to choose Liverpool over Bayern marks a shift in the balance of power, with Premier League clubs increasingly able to attract the continent’s brightest stars.
As negotiations near completion, all eyes remain on Florian Wirtz and his expected move to Anfield. The outcome will shape Liverpool’s midfield for years to come and send a strong message to their European rivals.