Ornstein: Liverpool Negotiating Record-Breaking Transfer For Florian Wirtz | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Wirtz Talks Signal Major Intent in Slot Era

Wirtz in Liverpool’s Sights

“Liverpool have opened talks with Bayer Leverkusen over the signing of playmaker Florian Wirtz.” That’s the explosive start to David Ornstein’s report in The Athletic, and it’s no overstatement. If this deal goes through, Wirtz would not only become Liverpool’s record signing but also the most expensive German footballer ever.

What makes this development even more intriguing is that “communications between the two clubs had already been opened after an agreement was reached for Liverpool to sign right-back Jeremie Frimpong.” This suggests a coordinated double swoop, possibly leveraging that initial contact to fast-track negotiations for Wirtz.

Record-Breaking Potential

Any pursuit of Wirtz is bold. But this one could be historic. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is fresh off back-to-back jaw-dropping seasons. Last year he delivered 18 goals and 20 assists, earning the Bundesliga Player of the Season as Leverkusen secured an unbeaten domestic title. This term, he followed up with 16 goals and 15 assists. Not a dip in sight.

Despite Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro’s earlier claim that Wirtz had a “very high chance” of staying put this summer, The Athletic revealed that Liverpool made contact with the player’s camp, clearly capitalising on a long-standing interest.

Big Moves, Big Statements

Liverpool, now under the stewardship of Arne Slot following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, have wasted no time showing ambition. The club has already wrapped up a deal for Jeremie Frimpong, who is expected to slot in after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s exit. That move alone signals strategic squad evolution.

And while Bayern Munich believed Wirtz was on course for a move to Anfield rather than joining them, it further reinforces Liverpool’s emerging dominance in the transfer market and growing allure across Europe.

Wirtz’s Mindset and Market Timing

Wirtz, speaking to Sports Illustrated in May, said he is “definitely keen” to “experience something new”, after six seasons with Leverkusen. The timing is ripe. His stock is sky-high. He’s proven at club and international level, with 29 Germany caps and two goals at Euro 2024.

With Xabi Alonso and several key players leaving Leverkusen this summer, this could be the perfect window for Wirtz to make his move.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is what fans dream of. A title-winning side not sitting back, but sharpening its blade even further. Florian Wirtz is not just a good signing. He’s a statement. Creative, lethal in front of goal, and capable of running a match from midfield, Wirtz fits the modern Liverpool mould.

Under Arne Slot, who’s already hinted at maintaining Liverpool’s attacking DNA with tactical upgrades, a player like Wirtz could be pivotal. Imagine Wirtz threading passes to Mo Salah, or linking with Dominik Szoboszlai in midfield. That’s not just fantasy. That’s potential reality.

This also suggests FSG and the recruitment team are not messing about. They’re backing the new manager with funds and foresight. If the Frimpong deal is already tied up, and Wirtz follows, that’s two elite-level players from one of Europe’s most exciting sides. Momentum isn’t just for the pitch anymore.

We don’t want to jump the gun, but if this goes through, Liverpool fans have every reason to believe that the post-Klopp era could be every bit as ambitious as the one that came before.