Liverpool could upset the apple cart in the transfer race for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz this summer, according to reports from Germany - with the playmaker and his family having spoken to the Reds ahead of a potential move to the Premier League.
The Reds cruised to the top-flight title earlier this season, securing their second title in the competition's history, and having only signed Federico Chiesa last summer from Juventus, they'll get the chance to spend big this time around. And that could see Wirtz join them, with reports stating that Wirtz's close ones have held talks with Richard Hughes and their recruitment team ahead of a potential move.
Report: Liverpool 'Hold Talks' with Wirtz's Family Over Potential Move
The German star has been incredible for a number of years
Florian Wirtz during a pre-match warm-up with Bayer Leverkusen
The report by German outlet Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger states that Leverkusen have yet to receive an offer for Wirtz, with the former Bundesliga champions not expected to make a quick decision on his future.
Florian Wirtz's Bundesliga statistics - Bayer Leverkusen squad ranking
Stats
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Key Passes Per Game
Shots Per Game
Dribbles Per Game
Match rating
The report states that whilst there are claims that his move to Bayern Munich is almost a 'done deal', it's thought that the situation is more uncertain than realised. It's not impossible that Wirtz could still move to Munich, but a move to Bavaria doesn't seem 'particularly realistic' - opening the door to Liverpool.
Leverkusen are hoping for a contract extension, but if that doesn't happen, then a move abroad will be their preferred option, so not to extend the gap between themselves and Vincent Kompany's side.
Wirtz' family are thought to have spoken with four 'top' European clubs, with Liverpool being one of those - and the Reds' strong finances as a result of winning the Premier League means that they are 'more likely' to be able to afford Leverkusen's demands, unlike Bayern.
Arne Slot has seen Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai excel at Anfield this season as his playmakers, but Wirtz would add another level of quality to his midfield. Having recorded 31 goal contributions in all competitions for Leverkusen this season - including six goals in nine Champions League games, alongside 10 goals and 13 assists in the Bundesliga - he'd be an incredible addition on Merseyside alongside teammate Jeremie Frimpong, who has also been linked with a move to Anfield.
Wirtz has already racked up 29 caps for Germany after making his debut in 2021, with six goals to boot for the national team, and a further 122 goal contributions in just 196 games for Die Werkself has propelled him to being the 'best midfielder in the world', according to Patrick Helmes.
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 14-05-25.
Arne Slot Liverpool Fabrizio Romano Exclusive Related
Fabrizio Romano Exclusive: 'Sensational' Star Agrees to Join Liverpool After Talks
GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano says a 'sensational' star has decided to join Liverpool after transfer talks.
Sign up to The GIVEMESPORT Report to get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.