After clinching the Premier League title under Arne Slot, Liverpool are close to securing a major signing: German star Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen, regarded as one of the best young players globally, is nearing a transfer to Anfield, with details of his potential wages now emerging.
Arne Slot made history in the 2024/25 season as only the fifth manager to win the Premier League in his first year, but he’s aiming higher. He sees Wirtz, a seasoned German international with 30 caps, as crucial for Liverpool’s future success.
Liverpool faced tough competition from top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. Their initial £109 million bid was rejected by Leverkusen—now coached by Erik ten Hag—who are demanding a £127 million fee.
According to German media outlet BILD, a five-year contract extending to summer 2030 is close to being agreed upon.
Perhaps most striking is Wirtz’s rumored weekly wage. Should the transfer be completed, the attacking midfielder would earn approximately £355,000 per week, overtaking club captain Virgil van Dijk’s £350,000 and ranking just below Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s highest-paid player at £400,000.
This would make Wirtz Liverpool’s second-highest-paid player, reflecting the high regard in which he is held by Arne Slot and the club’s leadership. While talks are still underway, an agreement appears imminent.
In the 2024/25 season, Wirtz contributed impressively with 31 goal involvements—scoring 16 goals and providing 15 assists in 45 matches—highlighting his game-changing abilities and creativity in attack. His exceptional passing and vision are expected to enhance Liverpool’s midfield significantly.
Born in Pulheim, Wirtz progressed through FC Köln’s youth ranks before joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2020. Since then, he has become a key player, instrumental in their 2023/24 Bundesliga title win. Now, he may be ready to embark on the next phase of his career at Anfield