Liverpool lead Wirtz pursuit
Liverpool are now the front-runners to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder reportedly prefers a move to Anfield. Manchester City have withdrawn their interest, leaving Liverpool and Bayern Munich as the primary contenders.
David Ornstein reported that Wirtz “is believed to favour Liverpool” and that Bayern “think he is on track for a move to Anfield.” He noted that Wirtz visited north-west England recently to look for housing. Bayern are aware of the player’s preference for Merseyside.
Negotiations begin
Wirtz is waiting for negotiations between Leverkusen and Liverpool to progress. Leverkusen wants €150 million (£126.5m) for the German international, but Liverpool will likely attempt to negotiate a lower fee.
The Reds’ record signing remains Darwin Núñez, who joined from Benfica for £85 million in 2022. A Wirtz transfer could break that record if the fee exceeds £100 million.
Reporter Matteo Moretto confirmed that the player is now awaiting the clubs’ next steps. “They would still need to agree a deal with Leverkusen, which is not a formality given the finances involved,” Ornstein wrote.
Bayern shifts focus
Bayern Munich are considering alternatives to Wirtz. Journalist Florian Plettenberg reported the German club are now looking at AC Milan’s Rafael Leão and Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma. Bayern have previously held long discussions with Wirtz’s agents.
Despite Bayern’s continued interest, Liverpool appear to have taken the lead. Wirtz reportedly wants the deal agreed before the Nations League, which begins on 4 June. Sources indicate he has “given his word” to Liverpool.
Xabi Alonso factor
Wirtz played under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen and could reunite with him at Liverpool. Alonso said farewell to Leverkusen fans following their final game, a 2-2 draw at Mainz.
Reports in Germany say Real Madrid may still enter the race. However, Alonso’s connection to Wirtz may give Liverpool an edge over the Spanish giants. Wirtz’s desire to test himself in the Premier League also supports Liverpool’s pursuit.
Frimpong deal complete
Meanwhile, Liverpool have finalised a deal for Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong. The Netherlands international will cost around £29.5 million. He is expected to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will leave on a free transfer to Real Madrid.
Frimpong was an unused substitute in Leverkusen’s final game. Observers believe both Frimpong and its may have said their goodbyes to fans after the match. Liverpool’s strategy reflects a targeted approach ahead of the new season.
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Summer saga unfolds
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio labelled the Wirtz chase “the saga of the summer.” He said, “Nothing is decided yet because he has a lot of requests.” He confirmed that Bayern and Liverpool are “really interested.”
Di Marzio explained that Man City withdrew due to the high cost. “Not that Man City doesn’t have the power, but they think the overall financial package is too high,” he said.
He also added, “From my experience, if Bayern Munich wants to sign a player in the Bundesliga, a German player, they will do everything to get him.”
Liverpool project attracts Wirtz
Di Marzio suggested it may prefer the Premier League. “It also depends on the player if he doesn’t want to stay in the Bundesliga anymore,” he said. “Liverpool can arrive.”
He concluded that the final decision will depend on the best technical project for the player. Reports indicate it hopes for an agreement before international duty.
Liverpool’s swift pursuit, coupled with it’s admiration for the club’s direction, has significantly strengthened their chances. Talks continue with anticipation surrounding one of Europe’s most anticipated transfers this summer.
