Liverpool in Advanced Talks to Sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz
Liverpool Close to £114m Deal for Bayer Leverkusen Star Florian Wirtz
Liverpool are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a record-breaking deal for Bayer Leverkusen playmaker Florian Wirtz, with negotiations between the two clubs said to be at an advanced stage. The potential transfer could be worth up to £114 million, making it the most expensive signing in the club’s history.
According to BBC Sport, Liverpool submitted a third formal bid for the highly-rated Germany international last week. The offer includes £100 million guaranteed, with an additional £14 million in performance-related add-ons. If the deal goes through, it would surpass the club’s current record signing of Virgil van Dijk, who joined for £75 million from Southampton in 2018.
Sources close to the talks indicate that discussions are now focused on the structure of the add-ons, including how realistic the bonus triggers are. While Leverkusen initially valued Wirtz at around £126 million, Liverpool’s package is being seriously considered given the player’s clear preference to join the Merseyside club.
Wirtz, 22, has been a standout performer for Bayer Leverkusen since making his senior debut at the age of 17. Known for his creativity, intelligence, and goal-scoring ability, Wirtz has netted 57 goals in 197 appearances for the Bundesliga champions. He played a pivotal role in helping Leverkusen secure their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024.
On the international stage, Wirtz has also made his mark. Since debuting for the German national team in 2021, he has earned 31 caps and scored seven goals, further cementing his reputation as one of the brightest talents in European football.
The midfielder reportedly turned down interest from top European clubs including Manchester City and Bayern Munich, making it known that Anfield is his preferred destination.
This would be Liverpool’s second signing from Bayer Leverkusen during the current transfer window. Earlier this summer, they secured the services of right-back Jeremie Frimpong for £34 million.
If finalized, Wirtz would become the 10th player in football history to command a fee of £100 million or more. The current British transfer record remains Chelsea’s £107 million move for Enzo Fernandez in 2023. Chelsea also signed Moises Caicedo from Brighton for a £100 million base fee, which could rise to £115 million with add-ons.
Globally, the all-time highest transfer fee is still held by Paris Saint-Germain’s £200 million acquisition of Neymar in 2017.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Wirtz marks a bold statement of intent as they look to reshape their squad and challenge for domestic and European honors under their new management setup.for
