Liverpool are heavily linked with a move for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz, but Ally McCoist isn't so sure the newly-crowned Premier League champions should sign him
15:19, 22 May 2025Updated 15:20, 22 May 2025
Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz is heavily linked with a move to Liverpool - but will his price tag put the Reds off?
Ally McCoist has questioned whether it makes sense for Liverpool to spend a record sum on Florian Wirtz.
The Merseyside club reportedly view the German star as their No. 1 transfer target, but are competing with Bayern Munich to secure his services. Bayer Leverkusen are holding out for more than £120million for the 22-year-old, which would force Liverpool to break their all-time transfer record — currently the £85m fee they spent on Darwin Nunez in 2022 — if they hope to bring him to Anfield.
Club chief executive Michael Edwards is flying to the United States for talks with owners FSG to evaluate a possible bid, with the club seemingly ready to spend big for the talented midfielder. However, some observers, including McCoist, have voiced concern over the valuation.
Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Scotland international was asked whether £120m was excessive for Wirtz, and he gave a clear-cut answer. "Yes, for anybody it is - that's my argument," McCoist said.
"Is he a good player? Yes. Is he a top player? Yes, but straight away if you can get three players at £40m or maybe an £80m and a £40m. Yes, is the answer to the question."
McCoist argued that Liverpool should consider directing their funds to other areas of the squad, especially up front. "I think that money could be better spent, I really do," he stressed.
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Ally McCoist
Ally McCoist isn't sure Liverpool should be spending such a huge amount on Florian Wirtz(Image: James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
"Yes, I like him as a player and he'll make a difference in any side but it's too much for me, it really is too much. I know the market has gone crazy but I still think the priority [should be a striker]."
His remarks come as Liverpool weigh their attacking reinforcements ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer window. The club has maintained a long-standing interest in Wirtz, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen's title-winning 2023/24 campaign.
Wirtz has continued his strong form into this season, tallying 16 goals and 15 assists across all competitions. Widely regarded as one of Europe's most gifted young creators, his ability to operate in several positions in the final third only adds to his appeal.
Manchester City had also monitored Wirtz but reportedly dropped out of contention due to financial concerns. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, remain in the mix and are believed to be optimistic about outbidding Liverpool.
Florian Wirtz in action against Liverpool
Bayer Leverkusen reportedly want more than £120m for Florian Wirtz(Image: PA)
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Even if Wirtz is open to a switch to England, the financial demands involved might prove too steep for Liverpool. City are said to have feared that the total package, factoring in salary, agent fees, and bonuses, might push the overall cost beyond £250m.
Liverpool still have significant resources available, partly due to having allocated funds to potentially replace Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, with Salah and Van Dijk signing new deals, much of that budget can now be redirected.
Whether Liverpool decide to go all-in on Wirtz or pursue a more diversified recruitment path is still undecided. But if McCoist's scepticism is echoed more widely, even fans of the player may conclude the price tag is simply too high.