Wirtz Worth the Wait, Liverpool Break the Bank

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Premier League champions agree record deal for Leverkusen star  

Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign German playmaker Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of €136.3 million, according to British media reports. The deal, if finalised, would make the 21-year-old the most expensive signing in Liverpool's history—surpassing the £75 million fee paid for Virgil van Dijk in 2018.

The agreement is a significant coup for the Premier League champions, who have acted decisively to secure one of Europe’s most gifted young attacking midfielders. Wirtz is expected to sign a five-year contract, with the fee comprising €117.5 million up front and €18.8 million in performance-related add-ons.

Wirtz's Rise and Appeal

Wirtz enjoyed a standout season in 2024–25, scoring 16 goals and assisting 15 across all competitions as Leverkusen finished runners-up to Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. His technical creativity, spatial intelligence, and ability to dictate tempo in the final third have made him a central figure in German football’s next generation.

With just two years remaining on his current contract at Leverkusen, speculation over his future had been mounting. Both Bayern Munich and Manchester City were reportedly monitoring his situation closely, but Liverpool have moved swiftly to close the deal ahead of the competition.

Record-Breaking Statement

The marquee transfer represents a clear statement of intent from Liverpool’s new sporting leadership. Wirtz’s arrival aligns with a broader squad evolution, as the club builds around a younger core while maintaining elite competitive standards.

It also continues a notable summer of recruitment from Leverkusen, with Jeremie Frimpong already joining the Reds earlier in the window. The two were integral to Xabi Alonso’s electric side, and their familiarity could ease Wirtz’s adaptation to English football.

What It Means for Liverpool

Wirtz’s addition is expected to bring greater fluidity and incisiveness to Liverpool’s midfield—a department that has undergone significant change in recent seasons. His ability to operate between the lines, combine with forwards, and contribute goals could prove invaluable in high-stakes fixtures.

Whether deployed as a traditional No.10, a roaming No.8, or part of a front three, his versatility gives Liverpool options—and offers incoming manager Arne Slot an immediate asset around which to shape his tactical blueprint.