Liverpool are on the verge of landing one of the most exciting young talents in European football — Florian Wirtz.
The Premier League champions are reportedly about to finalize their second big signing of the summer after striking a deal with Bayer Leverkusen.
The Deal Details
According to reports, Liverpool and Leverkusen have agreed terms that will see Wirtz sign a five-year contract worth up to £18.5 million per year.
Although the clubs are still haggling over the transfer fee, insiders believe the deal is basically done.
Leverkusen want £120 million, while Liverpool have offered £109 million.
Despite the negotiation, Wirtz is keen on making the move to Anfield.
Wirtz’s Role and Medical Update
The 22-year-old German midfielder is expected to undergo his medical examination next week.
After that, he plans to take a holiday before joining Liverpool’s pre-season training in July.
Manager Arne Slot’s clear vision of using Wirtz as the team’s No. 10 has been a big selling point for the player.
Recently, after Germany’s Nations League loss to Portugal, Wirtz was asked if he was excited about joining Liverpool — and his nod said it all.
Breaking Records with a Big Fee
If Liverpool agree to Bayer Leverkusen’s price, Wirtz will become the most expensive player ever signed by a British club, surpassing Chelsea’s £115 million purchase of Moises Caicedo from Brighton.
That would set a new benchmark for British football transfers.
A Possible Complication from Koln
A potential hitch in the transfer could come from Wirtz’s former club, Koln.
Wirtz spent nearly a decade there during his youth, from age 7 to 17, before moving to Leverkusen.
Under FIFA rules, clubs that help develop players aged 12 to 23 are entitled to a 5% cut of transfer fees as training compensation.
Koln’s president, Werner Wolf, has confirmed the club will pursue their rightful share, which could mean more than £5 million if the transfer fee hits the rumored £120 million.
Wolf said, “We know what we are entitled to and will fight for it. The higher the sum Liverpool pays, the better for us.”
Liverpool’s Summer Business Continues
Wirtz would be Liverpool’s second signing this window, following the recent acquisition of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen.
Frimpong, a right wing-back, joined Liverpool after activating his £29.5 million release clause and signed a five-year deal.
He’s expected to fill the big shoes left by Trent Alexander-Arnold and boasts an impressive record with 28 goals and 35 assists over the past three seasons.
Liverpool are also in talks with Bournemouth over the highly-rated left-back Milos Kerkez, who is valued at around £40 million.
It looks like the Reds are gearing up to strengthen their squad significantly for the upcoming season.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
With the Wirtz deal nearly wrapped up, Liverpool fans can look forward to an exciting new era of talent at Anfield.
The club is pushing hard to reinforce key positions as they aim to defend their Premier League crown and compete on all fronts.
The coming weeks will be crucial as pre-season approaches and these new signings begin to settle into the squad.