Liverpool appear to be on the verge of completing one of the most exciting transfers of the summer — and it’s catching the attention of top players across Europe.
According to renowned journalist **Fabrizio Romano**, the Reds have reached a **verbal agreement in principle** with Bayer Leverkusen for the signing of **Florian Wirtz**. The deal is expected to reach around **€150 million (£127m)** including add-ons, and could become official by the end of the week, as per Graeme Bailey.
### Gundogan’s Big Statement
Manchester City and Germany midfielder **Ilkay Gundogan** has publicly praised Wirtz, calling him a player with the potential to become **one of the best in the world**. Speaking earlier this year on *The TRS Podcast* (quoted by *The Mirror*), Gundogan said:
> “They’re close to being world-class. Maybe not quite there yet, but they have what it takes to become the best in the world soon.”
> “They’ve got the talent and quality. I’ve played alongside them with Germany and seen what they can do both for club and country. Not just great footballers — they’re great people too. It’s just a matter of time.”
Having played 16 matches alongside Wirtz for the German national team, Gundogan’s endorsement holds serious weight.
### Wirtz by the Numbers
Wirtz’s stats from the 2024/25 season make a compelling case for Liverpool’s investment. According to *FBref*, he ranks among the **elite attacking midfielders and wingers** across Europe’s top leagues:
* Top 4% for successful dribbles (2.89 per 90 mins)
* Top 7% for progressive passes (6.63)
* Top 7% for shot-creating actions (5.53)
* Top 9% for assists (0.38)
* Top 20% for shots (2.87) and non-penalty goals (0.38)
Wirtz ended the season with **16 goals and 15 assists in 45 matches**, bringing his career totals to **57 goals and 65 assists** in just under 200 appearances for Leverkusen.
### A Landmark Signing for Liverpool
Liverpool’s willingness to break their transfer record underlines how highly they rate the 21-year-old German. With such glowing praise from a player like Gundogan — a proven leader and winner — fans at Anfield have every reason to be excited.
If finalized, this deal could bring a true game-changer to Merseyside — one who’s already proving his worth on both club and international stages, and who might soon rise to the very top of the football world.
