Bayern Munich have commented on rival interest in Florian Wirtz after Liverpool's stance was revealed, with Anfield chiefs reached out to Wirtz’s representatives
Florian Wirtz of Bayer 04 Leverkusen looks on
Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen has suitors in Liverpool and Munich(Image: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl says Florian Wirtz 'is free to visit' anywhere he wants amid reports of meetings with English clubs earlier this week.
Liverpool's stance towards the attacking midfielder has emerged, setting up a significant transfer tussle with the German champions in the summer window.
Reports elsewhere across England and Germany had started to give details over Bayer Leverkusen ace Wirtz and his parents making the flight to these shores on Tuesday as they decide over his future. At first the focus was on Manchester City, with claims he was touring their facilities, though later Liverpool's name emerged as part of the discussion.
It is the ECHO's understanding that the 22-year-old has long-term admirers at Anfield, this has been indicated to the player and the Reds are now prepared to go up against Bayern and City for his signature.
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German media in particular reacted with shock to the idea of Wirtz's discussions in England, as only days prior they had explained how Bayern were all-but certain to land the £125m-rated talent.
Now speaking at a press conference, the club's sporting director, Eberl, has addressed the situation.
"If Florian Wirtz and his family made this trip, they'll have their reasons. It's not our place to comment on that," he declared.
"Florian Wirtz is free to visit Liverpool, Manchester, Madrid or whatever with his family and friends."
Speaking generally on the summer transfer window and Bayern's plans, Eberl added: "There's a lot of speculation in Munich, and everyone has their own opinion. Of course, that doesn't make things easy.
"With the Club World Cup, this summer is obviously special. I try to ignore it as much as possible.
"We have to ignore the speculation so we can conduct our business calmly. That's what we did with the contract extensions and we want to do the same with transfers."
Wirtz is a Bundesliga winner with Leverkusen, though their 2023/24 success is the only instance in the past 13 years whereby Bayern have not been confirmed German champions.
But Leverkusen themselves are in the complex position of not wishing to strengthen a direct rival yet wanting the highest amount of money possible for their player.
Amid interest from Liverpool and City, Wirtz has stated recently that the idea of a new challenge 'appeals' to him.
"I’m pretty lucky that I have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and that I can now play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe.
"I have a lot of respect for the lads here in Leverkusen who come from South America or Africa, for example, and leave their families and surroundings behind for their careers.
"It definitely appeals to me to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience something new," he admitted, adding: "I know football locker rooms well enough and I’m convinced that I would quickly settle in wherever I go.
"I keep seeing posts about me on social media. Every now and then, I have to laugh when people write about where I’m supposedly playing next season.
"Nobody but me can know that. That’s why I don’t pay any attention to such news and deal with them in a pretty chill way."