Liverpool is on the verge of finalizing a landmark deal for Florian Wirtz, but the impending transfer has stirred controversy, particularly among German football pundits. One commentator has denounced the potential move as “a disaster for German football,” particularly highlighting the challenges Bayern Munich faced in pursuing the young talent.
The Premier League champions are aiming to secure Wirtz, with negotiations hovering around a deal that could become one of Britain’s most expensive transfers. With Bayer Leverkusen setting a minimum asking price of €130 million (£109.6 million, $148 million) for the midfielder, Wirtz’s preference for a move to Liverpool has notably benefited the negotiating position of Arne Slot’s team.
Despite Liverpool’s previous rejected offers, discussions are progressing positively. Leverkusen is now open to considering the inclusion of two Liverpool players in any agreement, paving the way for a resolution in the coming days.
Many experts believe that the acquisition of Wirtz will significantly strengthen Liverpool for the upcoming season. A Bundesliga specialist recently spotlighted the 22-year-old’s exceptional skills, branding him a generational talent.
However, not all feel optimistic about Wirtz’s likely departure to Anfield. Thomas Helmer, a former Bayern Munich defender, expressed concerns over what his transfer would mean for the Bundesliga. “If Florian Wirtz goes to the Premier League, it would be very bad for the Bundesliga,” Helmer stated. He underscored Wirtz’s value by noting, “For me, Wirtz is one of the best attacking players at the moment,” adding that his significance to the German national team rivals that of Jamal Musiala.
Helmer lamented the lost opportunity for Wirtz and Musiala to establish a partnership at Bayern before the World Cup next year. “Many people in Germany were hoping he’d transfer to Bayern,” he said, emphasizing that while Liverpool would benefit from Wirtz, his choice is a setback for German football.
The decision to sign with Liverpool was influenced by Slot’s commitment to utilizing Wirtz in his preferred No.10 position, contrasting with the need for Bayern to adapt their structure to accommodate both Wirtz and Musiala. Helmer discussed the potential issues: “Bayern would have had to change their system to fit them both in,” he said, recognizing the necessary adjustments could complicate their playing dynamics.
As optimism grows around the deal, a football finance expert noted that Wirtz’s agent has played a crucial role in undermining Bayer Leverkusen’s negotiating strategies. Slot’s ambitions extend beyond just Wirtz; the manager is reportedly eyeing two additional high-profile signings as well.
Liverpool has already made strides in the transfer market with Jeremie Frimpong joining as their first signing this summer. Anticipation is building for the potential addition of another full-back, Milos Kerkez, who has recently commented on the possibility of joining Liverpool and what could tip the scales in their favor.