Liverpool are reportedly making a strong effort to pull off what would be one of the most dramatic transfer hijacks of the year.
The Reds have been intermittently linked with Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, though Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester City are also interested, according to CaughtOffside.
Last week, SPORT BILD reported that Wirtz told his current manager Xabi Alonso — who is set to join Real Madrid — that his preferred destination is Bayern Munich, who view him as their ideal signing.
However, Bundesliga expert Christian Falk (via CF Bayern Insider) now claims that Liverpool haven’t given up just yet.
Liverpool Officials Hold Talks With Wirtz
Reports suggest that Liverpool representatives met with Wirtz on Tuesday, while the player and his family are also said to be in talks with Manchester City. The meeting with Liverpool was planned in advance, indicating serious interest from the Merseyside club.
Bayer Leverkusen may demand a hefty €150m (£126.3m) fee, meaning any Premier League side would have to make a major financial commitment. Bayern Munich, meanwhile, remain confident in signing the German international and are reportedly preparing an offer around €100m (£84.2m).
Can Liverpool Persuade Wirtz to Reject Bayern?
Though Liverpool still have two matches remaining this season, sporting director Richard Hughes appears to be moving quickly to bolster Arne Slot’s squad ahead of the next campaign.
Alongside a possible move for Wirtz, Liverpool are reportedly close to signing his Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong, suggesting a double swoop could be in the works.
While Wirtz is said to have given Bayern his word, Liverpool would need to present a very compelling case to change his mind. Nonetheless, their proactive approach has been well received by fans, particularly ahead of the summer transfer window opening on June 1.
Described by Alonso as a “genius,” Wirtz has delivered double-digit goals and assists in the past two Bundesliga seasons, offering a creative spark that Liverpool have arguably lacked since the days of Philippe Coutinho.
Whether Tuesday’s meeting changes anything remains to be seen — but Liverpool’s ambition is clear, and that’s something supporters will certainly appreciate
