Florian Wirtz has endured a difficult start to life on Merseyside and former midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has backed a potential swap deal involving the German
Vini Jr
Gaizka Mendieta believes Liverpool should swap Wirtz for Vini Jr(Image: Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Liverpool should swap Florian Wirtz for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, believing he would be a huge success at Anfield. Wirtz has endured a testing start at Liverpool following his £116million summer switch from Bayer Leverkusen, failing to register a goal or assist in 11 Premier League outings.
The 23-year-old has sat out the last two matches with a muscle injury but could return to Arne Slot's squad for Sunday's Premier League trip to West Ham. If he does, it's unclear whether he will start with debate and criticism surrounding his performances.
Meanwhile, Mendieta has suggested Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso could help Wirtz get his career back on track, with the pair having worked together at Levekusen. Wirtz spent five years there - three under the Spaniard.
Author avatar
Author avatar
"Florian Wirtz and Vinicius Junior in a swap deal. Why not? Honestly, why not?," Mendieta told Casinostugan.
"I see more obviously of Florian Wirtz at Real Madrid than Vinicius Junior at Liverpool right now, but I think a swap deal could suit them.
"We've seen it before, when a coach has a soft spot for a player, and they know they can get the best out of him, they want to work with that player again.
Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz has endured a tough start to life at Liverpool
View 2 Images
"He was a leader at Leverkusen and although there are a lot of what ifs, we've seen it before.
"The question at Real Madrid would be what position he would play and who he would replace.
"They already have a problem with the players that they have: Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Fede Valverde, so I think it's crowded, especially in midfield.
Mendieta continued: "But we've seen how players and coaches have crossed paths again in the future, so who knows. Vinicius Junior could be a big success in the Premier League with the right support.
"When I mean support, I mean a club having faith in him, obviously he's a fantastic player. The Premier League has a physical side, he's obviously a strong player.
"I could see him having success. I would love to see Vinicius Junior in the Premier League. I think it would be a fantastic challenge for himself as a player."
Vini Junior's future has been one of the biggest topics at Real Madrid for months.
The Athletic have reported that talks over a new deal have stalled, and the 'picture has become complicated.'
Reports have suggested his relationship with Alonso has remained 'strained' which may have an influence on his decision. The Brazilian is under contract until the summer of 2027.