All the latest Liverpool FC news as Arne Slot gears up for a busy summer transfer window
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Sport
17:00, 19 May 2025
Florian Wirtz of Leverkusen reacts after the Bundesliga match between 1. FSV Mainz 05 and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at MEWA Arena on May 17, 2025
Florian Wirtz following Bayer Leverkusen's clash against FSV Mainz(Image: Photo by Jörg Schüler/Bayer 04 Leverkusen via Getty Images)
Liverpool have been given a major boost in the race to sign Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League recently following his impressive performances for Bayer Leverkusen.
Wirtz, who sees his contract at the Bay Arena expire in June 2027, featured 31 times in the Bundesliga this season, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists. Playing a key role in Xabi Alonso's side, he helped Leverkusen comfortably secure qualification to the UEFA Champions League.
The Germany international's eye-catching displays haven't gone unnoticed, attracting attention from some top clubs. However, his price tag is proving to be an issue; according to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester City have 'cooled their interest' in Wirtz due to financial concerns.
The report claims that the German maestro had been identified as a primary target, with Pep Guardiola eager to bolster his midfield this summer. But, City have decided to walk away from a potential deal, leaving the door wide open for Liverpool to secure Wirtz's signature.
Florian Wirtz in action for Bayer Leverkusen.
Florian Wirtz has been linked with Liverpool and other top European clubs.
The Manchester Evening News add that the Red face tough competition from Bayern Munich for the Leverkusen star. That said, the Bundesliga champions' chief executive recently lashed out at reporters for 'writing nonsense' about Wirtz's future.
TalkSPORT reported that the player's parents, Hans and Karin, flew into the UK earlier this week amid interest from Liverpool and City. Uli Hoeness said: "These are things that are so typical of the state of our media, that they take such nonsense as a small trip so seriously.
"It's not about football anymore, it's just about every fart left and right. And then you have to ask yourselves whether that's still what the viewers want to hear, read, and see.
Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz.
Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz.
"What can I tell you now? You've been writing nonsense for weeks about him going to Manchester City, even though he was at Liverpool. We'll provide you with facts at some point, not more speculation."
Wirtz was linked with a move to Real Madrid last summer, but his father quickly ruled out an exit from the Bay Arena. Speaking to German publication Bild, Hans said: "Florian has a contract in Leverkusen.
"And he's looking forward to next year at Bayer when he can play in the Champions League with Leverkusen for the first time. Those are the facts.
Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen.
Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen.
"Now the focus is on the Euros. After that, there’s a lot to do with the club next season, so there’s no need for speculation. There's really nothing to say beyond that."
Then, at a press conference ahead of Euro 2024, Wirtz was asked if he wanted to play with Jamal Musiala on the domestic stage. The Leverkusen ace replied: "We both joke about this, it would be interesting to play in the same team in a way. But we are both happy in our respective clubs.
Then, when pressed further to pick between Real Madrid and Bayern, Wirtz remained tight-lipped. He said: "Jamal is already playing for Bayern and I am comfortable at Leverkusen."