Liverpool are facing a pressing deadline to complete the transfer of Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, with another top European club threatening to derail the move.
The Reds are in a race against time to land the 21-year-old midfielder, who has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga over the last two seasons. Though Liverpool were recently reported to be leading the chase, the situation remains uncertain due to fresh developments.
A potential double signing involving Wirtz and his Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong was previously believed to be close, but new reports suggest the deal is far from sealed.
While Wirtz is said to have agreed to a five-year contract with Liverpool, The Sun reports that the two clubs have not agreed on a transfer fee. Leverkusen reportedly turned down an £86 million offer, holding out for £106 million upfront plus an additional £20 million in performance-based add-ons. Wirtz is reportedly hoping the transfer can be wrapped up before he joins Germany’s national team this Thursday for their UEFA Nations League semi-final against Portugal.
Liverpool now face added urgency, with Real Madrid still in the mix. Although Bayern Munich and Manchester City are no longer seen as serious contenders, AS reports that Real Madrid remain confident they can still secure Wirtz. The Spanish giants have a potential advantage: Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, who has a strong relationship with Wirtz, is tipped to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid — a factor that could influence the midfielder’s decision.
This update comes amid wider transfer activity involving Liverpool, including speculation around a low asking price for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and Real Madrid’s interest in defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, who may leave Anfield on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of June
