Liverpool are pulling out all the stops this summer as they go after one of Europe’s most exciting midfielders—Florian Wirtz.
The 21-year-old German star has caught the eye of the Reds’ new head coach Arne Slot, and talks with Bayer Leverkusen are now at an advanced stage.
But let’s get one thing straight: despite rumours swirling around, Harvey Elliott is not part of this deal.
No Player Swaps, Just Straight Cash for Wirtz
Reports had floated the idea that Liverpool might offer up a player as part of the deal, specifically Harvey Elliott.
But that’s not happening.
The club has made it clear—it’s a cash-only offer.
While Elliott has admitted he’s thinking about his future, Bayer Leverkusen isn’t in the picture.
Liverpool have tabled a massive bid of £109 million, just shy of Leverkusen’s £120 million valuation.
If a deal is struck, Wirtz would become the most expensive player ever signed by a British club, overtaking Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo deal.
Why Wirtz Is Set on Joining Liverpool
So why is Wirtz so interested in making the move? It’s not just the money or the Premier League spotlight.
He’s reportedly been sold on Arne Slot’s vision and sees a clear role for himself as Liverpool’s No 10.
That kind of clarity goes a long way for a young playmaker with options.
Both Manchester City and Bayern Munich have shown interest—but Wirtz only has eyes for Anfield.
Ten Hag’s Arrival at Leverkusen Doesn’t Change Wirtz’s Plans
Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has taken over at Leverkusen following Xabi Alonso’s move to Real Madrid.
But even with a new coach in place, the club is already preparing for life without Wirtz.
Ten Hag has turned his gaze back to the Premier League to start reshaping his squad—but Wirtz is expected to be gone before his rebuild even begins.
Harvey Elliott’s Future Still Uncertain, But Not Linked to This Deal
Harvey Elliott, still only 21, has spoken candidly about his future.
He’s admitted this season has been a tough one, with most of his minutes coming in difficult moments when Liverpool were chasing games.
While he remains loyal to the club, he’s also thinking hard about what’s best for his career.
If he does end up leaving, it’ll be in a completely separate deal, not part of the Wirtz negotiations.
Slot’s Other Midfield Options and Al Nassr’s Interest in Diaz
Wirtz is clearly the priority for Arne Slot, but Liverpool have also reached out to Rayan Cherki—just in case things don’t pan out.
Cherki, however, is more of a backup option.
Meanwhile, Luis Diaz is attracting interest from Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, although no official approach has been made yet.
Still, Liverpool are keeping their options open this window.
Wirtz Shuts Down Shirt Number Talk in Fiery Instagram Post
As if all this drama wasn’t enough, Wirtz recently took to Instagram to clap back at reports claiming he wants to take Alexis Mac Allister’s No 10 shirt.
His message? Don’t believe everything you read.
He made it clear he respects the players already at Liverpool and had no intentions of demanding anything.
His post ended with a telling clown emoji aimed at the German press.
What’s Next?
With Liverpool edging closer to Leverkusen’s asking price and Wirtz pushing for the move, this one looks like it could be wrapped up soon.
The Reds want to close the deal before the player’s stock rises any higher—and fans are eager to see if Wirtz will become their latest superstar.
Now it’s just a matter of who blinks first in the final stages of negotiation.