There has been a fresh twist in Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz, with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly holding firm on its asking price for the player, or keen on landing two Reds as part of the deal.
Liverpool lodged a second, improved bid on Friday for the German international, which reportedly was for a fee of up to €130 million ($148M/£110M). Reports had indicated that was slightly short of Leverkusen’s valuation, but the German side would consider accepting given it was not selling to a direct rival.
However, claims emerged on Sunday that Leverkusen is keen on landing Harvey Elliott or Jarell Quansah as part of the deal. Transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg stated that the 2024 Bundesliga champions would be interested in including either as part of the package, with no decision made and talks “ongoing.”
It comes as German outlet Kicker reports that Liverpool’s second bid has been turned down. It claims that the approach was for a fixed fee of €118M ($134M/£99M) and a possible add-on of €12M ($14M/£10M) million, but Leverkusen wants a price in excess of €150M ($170M/£126M).
With a gap still present in the offer and asking price, Kicker adds Liverpool could return with a third offer, or include a current player as part of the deal.
The report states Elliott “fits Leverkusen's profile and is a consideration,” and adds he could leave Liverpool as Wirtz’s arrival would further reduce his playing time next season.
Meanwhile, the Northern Echo reports that Sunderland will “hold talks” with the Reds over a possible summer return to the Stadium of Light for Jayden Danns.
Jayden Danns
Jayden Danns could return to Sunderland next season (Image: PA)
The Liverpool forward joined Sunderland on loan in January but didn’t play a single minute for the club due to a back injury that was detected during his medical.
Danns has spent the last few months recuperating at Liverpool’s Kirkby training base, and it’s not clear how his recovery has progressed.
But he clearly made an impression on Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris, who held “one-to-one chats” with Danns, according to the Northern Echo. The outlet reports Danns will play some part in Liverpool’s pre-season tour, with Arne Slot keen to see the 19-year-old in action.
There is a “good chance Danns could be deemed surplus to requirements”, in which case another loan may be arranged. Recently promoted Sunderland would be interested in the opportunity should it arise, and the Liverpool forward is viewed as a “valuable addition” to the side.