Former Germany manager Joachim Low believed that Xabi Alonso could have positioned Real Madrid as the frontrunner for Florian Wirtz's signature from Bayer Leverkusen.
But Liverpool has emerged as the top contender. Europe's biggest clubs are on high alert with Leverkusen's Wirtz reportedly ready for a summer transfer. Interest from Manchester City, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich was piqued initially, until Guardiola’s team stepped back.
Anfield appears to be Wirtz's preferred destination over the Allianz Arena after some comments made by a former Leverkusen chief, despite Liverpool having faced rejections for multiple bids. Madrid later entered as a potential usurper to Wirtz's anticipated switch to Merseyside.
With Madrid prioritizing its hunt for a new manager, it ultimately appointed former player Alonso. However, despite the apparent close bond between Alonso and Wirtz, Liverpool still seems within touching distance of securing his services.
Low spoke to Bild with his perspective: "I just thought he'd be more likely to choose Real Madrid if he went abroad. He has developed enormously under him (Alonso), and they have a great relationship of trust. That's very important for a young player.
"Nevertheless, I have no concerns that Wirtz will prevail – no matter where he would have gone. He plays with a naturalness that can't be coached. He possesses all the skills a footballer needs to be a world-class player."
Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz with head coach Xabi Alonso
Wirtz worked with new Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen (Image: Getty Images)
Wirtz and Alonso were instrumental in Leverkusen's shock Bundesliga triumph last season, with the talisman netting 34 goals over the last two campaigns.
Despite a summer exodus, including Jeremie Frimpong's departure, Leverkusen is playing hardball over Wirtz's valuation, demanding around $171 million.
Low suggested Bayern would have been a suitable destination for Wirtz, yet the German team isn't competing for the 22-year-old's signature, potentially leaving Liverpool in pole position if it meets Leverkusen's hefty asking price.
Low remarked on the potential Anfield move: "Liverpool is a real statement because moving to the Premier League also involves a lot of adaptation and that starts with the rhythm of the game, but Florian Wirtz has no upper limit, he's definitely ready for the next step.
"We've had that feeling for a long time."
Dietmar Hamann, the former Liverpool and Germany midfielder, commended Wirtz for his commitment to joining the Premier League team amid other offers.
"Florian Wirtz has made a decision. I believe it's the right one," Hamann told Sky Sports Germany.
"Things are really happening at Liverpool under Arne Slot. They'll sign, or want to sign, two or three other players, from what I hear. That's why I think Wirtz has made a very good decision."