Liverpool’s ambitious pursuit of Florian Wirtz has hit a temporary roadblock. Bayer Leverkusen has reportedly rejected a massive £113 million offer from the Reds for the German star.
Wirtz Pushing for Anfield Move
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. Many view him as a future Ballon d’Or contender. Sources indicate that Wirtz is eager to join Liverpool, a move that would break the club’s transfer record.
After a dominant Premier League title win, new head coach Arne Slot is keen to add major reinforcements. Liverpool have already signed Dutch full-back Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen and are also in talks for Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. While Wirtz is said to have agreed on personal terms with Liverpool, striking a deal with his club remains the final hurdle.
Leverkusen Stand Firm on Price
According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Leverkusen recently declined Liverpool’s major proposal. The offer was reportedly worth £100 million upfront plus £13 million in performance-based bonuses. However, the Bundesliga champions are holding out for a total package closer to their £126 million valuation.
Liverpool appear to be in a strong position to eventually secure the player. Other interested clubs, like Manchester City and Bayern Munich, have reportedly backed away. City had financial concerns, while Wirtz is said to prefer a move to England over joining Bayern. Despite the rejected bid, discussions between the two clubs are continuing.
Our Take: A High-Stakes Game of Negotiation
This is a classic high-stakes transfer negotiation. Liverpool’s structured £113 million bid shows they are incredibly serious but are trying to protect the initial cash outlay. Leverkusen’s rejection is a predictable power move; they know they have one of the world’s most valuable young assets and are determined to extract every last million. This saga is now a game of chicken. Liverpool know the player wants to join them, but Leverkusen know the Reds have the money. The club that blinks first will determine the final fee.
Is Wirtz Worth the Record Fee?
For Liverpool to break their transfer record, the player has to be a generational talent—and Florian Wirtz fits that description. His ability to create chances, his vision, and his goal contributions are exactly what top teams pay a premium for. In today’s market, a fee north of £120 million for a 22-year-old with Ballon d’Or potential is the new reality. For Arne Slot, building his new-look team around such a dynamic offensive weapon is a tantalizing prospect, and one that is likely worth the historic price tag.
What to Watch For
- The Next Bid: How quickly will Liverpool return with an improved offer? Expect a new proposal that gets closer to Leverkusen’s £126 million asking price.
- Player Pressure: Will Wirtz or his agent make any public statements to try and push the deal through?
- Other Transfers: Does this delay impact Liverpool’s move for Milos Kerkez? The club may look to finalize other deals while the Wirtz negotiations continue.
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