Liverpool have moved a step closer to sealing a sensational deal for Florian Wirtz, with a third bid sent to Bayer Leverkusen as the attacking midfielder inches closer to completing a dream move to Anfield.
The bid from the reigning Premier League champions totals £113million with £100m initially and a further £13m in add ons. It is a third offer and while Bayer Leverkusen have been holding out for £126m all in, negotiations are ongoing as the two sides look to seal an agreement.
Liverpool are the only club Wirtz wants to join, having been impressed by head coach Arne Slot and the club’s plans for him when holding talks with Anfield chiefs. Personal terms have already been agreed and while Liverpool do not want to pay the full asking price the Bundesliga side are after, Wirtz’s desire to only move to Merseyside – having rejected Manchester City and Bayern Munich moves, means a compromise is expected to be reached.
Such is the expectation that a deal will get done, the Bundesliga side have already given Wirtz the pre-emptive green light to complete a medical and ultimately his move to Anfield next week, before the Germany international will go on holiday after a long season – he’s currently involved in the Nations League.
Former Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller had recently given an update on talks and suggesting he felt positive that a move would eventually be completed.
“It’s no secret that he’d like to go to Liverpool,” Voller told DAZN. “I know the clubs are negotiating with each other. [But with] transfers like this [it’s] often the case that it takes a while until an agreement is finally reached. Of course, in the end, you have the feeling it will go through.
Florian Wirtz has proven that he is a very, very valuable player. Not only for Bayer Leverkusen but also for the national team. That’s why he costs a few euros more.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard also shared his feelings on the Reds’ potential deal for Wirtz and appeared to be a big fan. He said: “There are rumours obviously, Florian Wirtz.
“A big talent who’s done fantastic for Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen. He’s got a huge future in front of him, so if Liverpool is the place for him, let’s hope we can make it happen.”
