
Anfield Index
·19 May 2025
Report: Liverpool Submit Bid For “Europe’s Elite Creative” Star

Anfield Index
·19 May 2025
Liverpool have taken concrete steps in their pursuit of Florian Wirtz, making a preliminary offer for the Bayer Leverkusen star ahead of what promises to be a fiercely competitive summer transfer window. The 22-year-old German international, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most technically gifted playmakers, has also drawn strong interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
Wirtz is coming off a sensational season in which he scored 16 goals and provided 15 assists across all competitions. Those numbers, alongside his elite creative metrics, have placed him at the centre of a tug-of-war among Europe’s most ambitious clubs.
Liverpool’s intent has sharpened in recent weeks, culminating in a private meeting with Wirtz’s representatives. Sources suggest the club arranged for the player’s camp to fly into Blackpool by private jet for discreet talks — a sign of the seriousness of their interest.
Negotiations are expected to be complex. Leverkusen have reportedly set Wirtz’s valuation at around €150 million (£126 million) if he joins Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich. However, for clubs outside Germany — such as Liverpool or Manchester City — the asking price could drop to around €100 million (£84 million).
The preference within Leverkusen’s hierarchy is clear: they would rather sell abroad than bolster Bayern’s dominance domestically. This dynamic places Liverpool in a potentially advantageous position, although they still face elite-level competition.
Wirtz’s numbers this season highlight why his stock is so high:
These statistics underline his creativity, composure, and tactical intelligence in advanced areas.
According to respected German journalist Stephan von Nocks via Kicker.de, all three suitors — Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Liverpool — have now lodged formal approaches.
“Finally, the preparatory work of the creative artist has been completed,” von Nocks reported. “With Manchester City, Liverpool FC and Bayern Munich, three clubs have submitted their concrete applications.” “The international and his parents, who act as his advisors, have exchanged views with the management of all three clubs.” “Now Wirtz, who has not yet extended his contract, which runs until 2027, has to decide. This has still not happened.”
The timing of the decision remains uncertain, but it is expected to be a major talking point as the summer unfolds, particularly with UEFA Nations League fixtures on the horizon.
Liverpool’s approach is being seen as part of a broader strategy to reinforce their squad following their recent Premier League resurgence. The club is close to finalising a £30 million deal for Wirtz’s Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong — another signal of their attempt to exploit Leverkusen’s potential squad reshuffle after Xabi Alonso’s departure.
Securing Wirtz would represent more than a marquee signing. It would be a statement of long-term ambition from a Liverpool side looking to build for sustained domestic and European success.
As the window edges closer, the ball is now in Wirtz’s court. With three elite clubs circling and a decision still pending, this is a saga that looks set to dominate the headlines.
The latest FBCharts data visualisation offers a compelling snapshot of Florian Wirtz’s all-round brilliance over the last 365 days. Comparing him against attacking midfielders and wingers, the 22-year-old Leverkusen playmaker boasts elite percentile rankings across key creative and possession metrics, underscoring why he’s at the centre of a high-profile transfer battle involving Liverpool, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich.
Wirtz’s standout attribute is his ability to consistently impact attacking phases. His Shot-Creating Actions rank in the 93rd percentile, while his Assists (77) and Expected Assisted Goals (75) reflect his precision and intelligence in the final third. He’s not merely a volume passer — he’s a difference-maker. Add to that his non-penalty xG (60) and non-penalty goals (81), and it’s evident that Wirtz is just as comfortable finishing moves as he is initiating them.
In possession, Wirtz is nothing short of elite. He ranks in the 98th percentile for Passes Attempted and Touches, showcasing how central he is to Leverkusen’s build-up play. His Progressive Passes (93), Progressive Carries (75), and Progressive Passes Received (96) underline his dual role — both as a ball-progressor and receiver in advanced areas. Meanwhile, his Successful Take-Ons (98) demonstrate a dribbling prowess that few in Europe can match.
Even defensively, where flair players are often found lacking, Wirtz shows notable contributions. His Clearances (81) and Tackles + Interceptions (33) suggest a work ethic that complements his technical ability — something managers at the top level demand in the modern game.
While his aerial presence (12) and blocks (12) are naturally less impactful due to his role and physique, the data paints a picture of a complete, modern attacking midfielder with the creative output and possession control required at the elite level.
It’s little wonder Liverpool have made their interest concrete. Wirtz’s numbers don’t just impress — they define a generational talent ready for the next step.