Liverpool have made headlines with a blockbuster €130 million offer for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. The Premier League champions are pushing hard to land the highly-rated German playmaker, who has emerged as a key transfer target under new head coach Arne Slot. With Wirtz reportedly open to the move, negotiations are gaining momentum in what could be one of the summer’s most significant deals.
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Anfield Pursuit: Liverpool Launch Hefty Offer for Bundesliga Star
Liverpool have made a seismic move in the summer transfer window by lodging a €130 million (£109 million) offer for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, sources close to the deal confirm. The ambitious proposal — an improved second bid — comes shortly after the Merseyside club clinched the Premier League title under new head coach Arne Slot. The fee comprises both a guaranteed payment and performance-based add-ons, reflecting Liverpool’s serious intent to secure one of Europe’s brightest creative talents.
Wirtz, only 22, has reportedly expressed enthusiasm about a switch to Anfield. Talks between the two clubs were initially reported by The Athletic on May 23, with momentum accelerating after Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong was also linked to a move to Merseyside. This latest offer signals the Reds’ determination to strengthen their midfield with a player who blends technical elegance with clinical final-third production.
Player Preference: Wirtz Eyes Merseyside Move Despite Bayern Interest
Despite Bayern Munich’s longstanding admiration for the Germany international, the Bundesliga champions have been informed of Wirtz’s preference to join Liverpool. Sources suggest that he has already visited the North West of England to explore potential living arrangements, indicating advanced progress in negotiations.
The attacking midfielder’s current contract with Leverkusen runs until 2027, having last been extended in 2022. However, the German club may be tempted by the sizeable valuation, especially considering the player’s expressed desire to pursue a new challenge in the Premier League.
Stellar Campaigns: Wirtz’s Rise to Stardom
Wirtz was instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win in the 2023-24 season. His extraordinary contribution — 18 goals and 20 assists — earned him the accolade of Bundesliga Player of the Season. Though Leverkusen couldn’t replicate that form in the 2024-25 campaign, finishing 13 points behind Bayern, Wirtz still managed to deliver 16 goals and 15 assists, underlining his consistency.
On the international stage, Wirtz has accumulated 29 caps for Germany since his debut in 2021, cementing his place as a cornerstone in the national team setup.
Tactical Fit: What Wirtz Brings to Arne Slot’s System
Dominik Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s primary attacking midfielder during Slot’s debut season. While the Hungarian has impressed with his work rate and tactical discipline, his final-third output — six goals and seven assists in 36 league appearances — has been less impactful. Slot had previously pointed out the need for improved productivity in that role.
Wirtz offers a contrasting profile. “Wirtz’s basic attacking numbers are stronger, with 21 goals and 25 assists in the Bundesliga since the start of last season illustrating greater potency at the sharp end of the pitch, albeit while playing in a different league.” His creative instincts, delicate footwork, and capacity to operate in tight spaces could unlock defences that Szoboszlai’s directness might struggle against.
Slot’s Liverpool has often utilized underlapping runs and wide attackers rather than relying on a traditional striker. Wirtz fits seamlessly into this model — his ability to drift wide, find pockets of space, and carry the ball forward enhances the team’s positional flexibility. His subtle skillset complements the existing squad and introduces an element of unpredictability in attacking transitions.
Long-Term Vision: Preparing for the Future Beyond Salah
With Mohamed Salah turning 33 next month, Liverpool are inevitably planning for a future without the Egyptian talisman. Wirtz’s age, coupled with his versatility across the front line, makes him a strategic addition to the squad’s long-term core. Whether deployed centrally, off the flanks, or even in a more withdrawn playmaking role, he can influence proceedings in numerous ways.
Wirtz’s ability to play anywhere across the front line would add an extra layer of versatility to Slot’s tactical setup… Wirtz can do a bit of everything.
His potential arrival could also relieve the need to enter the inflated striker market, allowing Liverpool to evolve their attacking identity through fluid movement and interchanging roles rather than pinning hopes on a single goalscorer.
Read More: Real Madrid Splash €10M to Fast-Track Trent Alexander-Arnold for Club World Cup Duty
FAQs
Did Liverpool make a €130 million bid for Florian Wirtz?
Yes, Liverpool submitted a €130 million offer to sign Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, including guaranteed fees and add-ons.
Does Florian Wirtz want to join Liverpool?
Yes, Florian Wirtz prefers a move to Liverpool over Bayern Munich and has already visited the city to explore housing options.
How could Florian Wirtz improve Liverpool’s attack?
Florian Wirtz could boost Liverpool’s creativity with his close control, vision, and goal contributions, adding depth to Arne Slot’s tactical setup.
What are Florian Wirtz’s recent stats at Bayer Leverkusen?
Wirtz scored 34 goals and provided 35 assists across the last two Bundesliga seasons, establishing himself as a top playmaker.
When does Florian Wirtz’s contract with Leverkusen expire?
Florian Wirtz’s contract with Bayer Leverkusen runs until 2027, following his last renewal in 2022.
