Wirtz: The Hottest Prospect in Europe
Liverpool have surged ahead of Manchester City in the battle to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, a 22-year-old attacking midfielder valued at £101m, according to German journalist Christian Falk’s Daily Briefing on May 16, 2025. Wirtz, with 18 goals and 24 assists in 42 Bundesliga matches this season, per Transfermarkt, is a prime target for Premier League clubs and Bayern Munich. His family’s recent UK visit, detailed by Falk, sparked speculation, though Liverpool.com denies any meeting occurred, confirming the Reds’ long-standing interest. On X, @AnfieldSector echoed Falk’s claim, noting Liverpool’s lead over City but Bayern’s optimism.
Secret Talks and Tactical Moves
Falk revealed Wirtz’s family flew to Blackpool and Manchester on May 14 via an Embraer Legacy 550 jet, landing at discreet airports to avoid attention. While City reportedly met Wirtz’s parents, Liverpool’s talks have positioned them as frontrunners, per CaughtOffside. Bayern, despite a €100m bid, lag behind Leverkusen’s €150m valuation, and the club prefers selling abroad to avoid strengthening a rival. City, eyeing Barcelona’s Dani Olmo as an alternative, may exit the race, per Falk, giving Liverpool an edge. On X, @LFCTransferRoom highlighted Liverpool’s “strategic push.”
Liverpool’s Strategic Advantage
Liverpool’s pursuit aligns with Arne Slot’s squad rebuild, especially with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s likely exit to Real Madrid. Wirtz’s 4.2 key passes per game and 89% pass accuracy, per WhoScored, make him ideal to replace Alexander-Arnold’s creativity. Leverkusen’s potential upheaval, with Xabi Alonso joining Real Madrid and Jeremie Frimpong nearing a Liverpool move, could ease negotiations. Bayern’s confidence in securing Wirtz by 2026, per BILD, keeps the race open, but Liverpool’s proactive approach gives them a head start.
What’s Next?
With Wirtz’s contract until 2027, Leverkusen holds leverage, but Liverpool’s Premier League lead (74 points) and financial muscle, per Opta, position them well. City’s focus on Olmo and Bayern’s lower bid may tilt the scales. On X, @CaughtOffside urged Liverpool to act swiftly, warning of Real Madrid’s interest. The saga continues, but Liverpool’s lead is a bold statement.
