Liverpool may be close to landing one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders, Florian Wirtz, but not everyone thinks it’s the right move.
Florian Wirtz, who is set for a big-money transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Anfield, has been told by former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda that he’s backing the wrong horse.
While many see the Reds as a club rebuilding under manager Arne Slot, Malouda believes Wirtz should’ve chosen a different Premier League path.
Wirtz has spent the last few years shining in Germany, helping Leverkusen reach new heights. Now, with a move worth around £116 million in the works, he’s looking to test himself in England. He reportedly chose Liverpool after hearing Slot’s plans for the future. But Malouda isn’t buying it.
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What Florent Malouda said on Florian Wirtz joining Liverpool
“A team on the rise” instead of the Red Giants? Speaking to bet365, Malouda said:
“I think Florian Wirtz has the profile to join a team that is on the rise. I think he would’ve been perfect to join a team like Newcastle, or Tottenham Hotspur, a team that wants to take that step up.”
Malouda had earlier suggested that Wirtz could even replace Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City, but it seems the German star had different ideas.
Instead of joining the former champions or a rising side like Spurs or Newcastle, he’s opted for Liverpool — a club in transition after Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Just for FYI: Also, a club that has just won the Premier League title under Arne Slot.
With players like Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez rumoured to be on the way out, there’s plenty of uncertainty at Anfield. Wirtz will be walking into a squad that could look very different come August.
But then again, maybe he wants to be the new engine of a rebuilt Liverpool midfield. Only time — and maybe a few assists — will help in shutting those critics.
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