Liverpool has received a significant boost in their pursuit of Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old midfielder has been the subject of intense speculation regarding a move to the Premier League, especially following his standout performances for Bayer Leverkusen.
Wirtz, whose contract at the Bay Arena runs until June 2027, has made 31 appearances in the Bundesliga this season, netting 10 goals and providing 13 assists. He has been instrumental in Xabi Alonso’s team, helping Leverkusen achieve comfortable qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
Reports suggest that Wirtz has emerged as a key target, with Pep Guardiola keen to strengthen his midfield this summer. However, Manchester City has opted to pull out of the race for the player, which opens up an opportunity for Liverpool to clinch Wirtz’s signature.
The Manchester Evening News adds that the Reds will face stiff competition from Bayern Munich for the talented midfielder. Nevertheless, the Bundesliga champions’ CEO recently criticized media speculation surrounding Wirtz’s future, calling it ‘nonsense.’
TalkSPORT noted that Wirtz’s parents, Hans and Karin, traveled to the UK earlier this week amid the interest from both Liverpool and City. Uli Hoeness expressed his frustration, stating: “These are things that are so typical of the state of our media, that they take such nonsense as a small trip so seriously. It’s not about football anymore; it’s just about every little thing. We need to ask ourselves whether that’s what the viewers want to hear, read, and see.”
Hoeness continued to emphasize the focus on the upcoming Euros, saying, “After that, there’s a lot to address with the club next season, so there’s no need for speculation. There’s nothing more to say beyond that.”
In a press conference ahead of Euro 2024, Wirtz was asked about the prospect of playing alongside Jamal Musiala at the club level. He responded, “We joke about it; it would be interesting to team up in a way. But we are both happy at our respective clubs.”
When further pressed to choose between Real Madrid and Bayern, Wirtz maintained his composure and said, “Jamal is already with Bayern, and I’m comfortable at Leverkusen.”
