German international Florian Wirtz is poised to join Liverpool this summer in a transfer that could total up to £116 million — potentially becoming the most expensive signing in Premier League history.
Having just secured the Premier League title, Liverpool are bolstering their squad for the 2025/26 season, and the 22-year-old Wirtz is expected to play a major role in that push. His standout performances in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga-winning campaign have caught widespread attention.
Wirtz, known for his versatility across the attacking line, presents manager Arne Slot with several options for integration into an already well-settled side. Here are three potential ways he could be utilized:
Option 1: Central Attacking Midfield
Wirtz may slot into the attacking midfield role — a position Liverpool could look to strengthen. While he often played on the left under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen, Liverpool’s tactical setup under Slot differs significantly.
With 13 assists and 10 goals last season, Wirtz’s dribbling, close control, and vision make him a strong candidate to unlock deep-defending teams. He’s also proven his defensive work rate, ranking high in duels won, interceptions, and distance covered in the Bundesliga.
Though Dominik Szoboszlai has been occupying the No. 10 spot, Slot has hinted at the need for more end product, which Wirtz could provide.
Option 2: Left Wing
Should Luis Diaz depart — with Barcelona reportedly interested — Liverpool could use Wirtz on the left wing. While Cody Gakpo offers another option, Wirtz’s adaptability may see him feature in wide areas, especially since Salah remains untouchable on the right.
Slot could instruct Wirtz to drift inside from the left, operating as an inverted playmaker. If Liverpool land full-back Milos Kerkez, his overlapping runs could complement Wirtz’s inside movement perfectly.
Option 3: False Nine or Second Striker
Under Xabi Alonso, Wirtz sometimes featured as a second striker or false nine — roles he might reprise at Anfield, especially with Darwin Núñez linked with a move away and no replacement yet secured.
Slot previously used Diaz in a false nine role against Leverkusen in a 4–0 win, suggesting he’s open to a fluid front line. Wirtz could step into this role if Liverpool don’t sign a traditional striker in the window.
In summary, Wirtz’s flexibility and high-level performances offer Liverpool several exciting tactical possibilities heading into their title defense
