Liverpool’s £110M Bid for Florian Wirtz Rejected; Leverkusen Open to Swap Deal Involving ‘Phenomenal’ Talent
Liverpool’s ambitious £110 million bid for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has been rejected, according to German outlet Kicker. The Bundesliga champions are reportedly holding out for an additional £17 million or are open to a swap deal featuring a highly rated player.
The Reds are determined to sign Wirtz this summer as they look to strengthen the squad under new head coach Arne Slot, following their recent Premier League title win. The signing of Jeremie Frimpong has already been confirmed, and Liverpool are also preparing a formal offer for Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, who is interested in a move to Anfield.
Despite submitting two offers, Liverpool have yet to meet Leverkusen’s valuation. One alternative Leverkusen is considering involves Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott, whom they view as a potential fit in a player-exchange deal. However, it’s unclear whether Elliott would be open to a move to the Bundesliga.
Elliott is already struggling to secure a consistent starting role under Slot, and Wirtz’s arrival would likely further limit his playing time due to their similar positions. If Wirtz does make the switch to Liverpool, Elliott could seek a move elsewhere to find regular minutes.
Acquiring Wirtz would be a major statement of intent from Liverpool, signaling their commitment to backing Slot with top-level talent to compete at the highest level in the 2025/26 season.
