Liverpool could once again boast one of the most formidable attacks in European football if they succeed in signing Florian Wirtz. The Reds have submitted a record-breaking £109 million offer for the German international, but Bayer Leverkusen are still holding out for a higher fee. Despite this, both clubs remain optimistic about finalizing the deal soon.
Wirtz has made a name for himself as a rising star in the Bundesliga, and his potential arrival at Anfield would not only signal Liverpool’s ambition but also break transfer records for both the club and the Premier League. The move follows a successful season, and with Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving, Jeremie Frimpong has already been brought in as part of the squad’s overhaul.
Liverpool are also eyeing Bournemouth defender Milos Kerkez as part of their summer plans.
Crucially, Liverpool have retained the services of key players like captain Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, the club’s Player of the Season. However, speculation continues around possible exits for Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota. Nunez has drawn interest from Saudi clubs and Atletico Madrid, while Diaz and Jota have also caught the eye of Middle Eastern clubs, with Barcelona linked to Diaz. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are reportedly tracking Gakpo, who thrived under manager Arne Slot during the title run-in.
Despite potential departures, Liverpool remain focused on reinforcing their squad. Wirtz is currently preparing for Germany’s Nations League semi-final against Portugal, but Liverpool are also considering alternatives. Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, and Goncalo Ramos are among those linked should changes to the forward line become necessary.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that Slot recently ended his vacation early to meet Rayan Cherki in southern France. While Wirtz remains the top priority, the Reds are exploring all options and preparing for various outcomes. Cherki, who impressed during Lyon’s Europa League quarter-final against Manchester United, is also a target for Manchester City as they look to revamp their squad.
Slot favored a dynamic 4-2-3-1 system during his championship-winning campaign. Players like Diaz, Jota, and Nunez rotated as strikers, while Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, and Salah filled wide roles. Jota’s injury issues and Chiesa’s inconsistency have sparked further transfer rumors.
Wirtz, who typically operates centrally, is expected to play as a No. 10 if signed. Cherki, known for his versatility, can feature across the front line but primarily plays from the right. His ability to switch wings adds tactical flexibility.
With PSG raising the bar after a dominant Champions League win, Liverpool must act decisively to stay competitive on the global stage. Slot, now in his second season, is expected to reshape the squad for better rotation after being let down by fringe players last year.
Projected Line-up with Wirtz and Cherki:
Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Cherki; Diaz
