A major German outlet has reinforced claims that the details of Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz may differ from what’s been widely reported.
Reports indicate that Wirtz has agreed to personal terms with Liverpool, opting for Anfield over Bayern Munich. The Reds have allegedly assured Wirtz that he will be given the coveted No. 10 role. Attention is now focused on reaching an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen regarding the transfer fee.
Liverpool’s initial offer reportedly exceeded €100 million, but Leverkusen value their star at around €150 million. Unsurprisingly, the first bid was rejected.
Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein later revealed that Liverpool raised their offer to €130 million. Although this is still below Leverkusen’s asking price, sources suggest that negotiations are progressing well, and a deal is likely to be finalized soon.
Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg previously suggested that Liverpool and Leverkusen are exploring a deal that includes a Liverpool player as part of the package.
On May 24, Plettenberg reported discussions about a mixed deal involving both cash and a player. Leverkusen are looking to sign a goalkeeper, central defender, striker, and a replacement for Wirtz.
In a recent update, Plettenberg confirmed that Liverpool have submitted a new offer in the €125–130 million range. While a final agreement hasn’t been reached, both clubs are optimistic and believe a deal could be done within days. There is still talk of a Liverpool player being included in the negotiations.
It remains unclear whether the player would be part of the €130 million valuation or reduce the overall fee.
Plettenberg maintains that including a Liverpool player remains a viable option in the final agreement.
As for possible candidates, Leverkusen’s needs suggest a goalkeeper, centre-back, No. 10, or striker. They are already in talks to sign Brentford’s Mark Flekken as a goalkeeper, which likely rules out Caoimhin Kelleher.
Jarell Quansah could be a candidate in defence, while Harvey Elliott – who may be pushed out if Wirtz joins – could be a fit for the No. 10 role. Darwin Núñez is also expected to leave, though Liverpool are eyeing a lucrative transfer to Saudi Arabia for him.
Therefore, Quansah or Elliott seem the most likely to be included, if needed.
As of now, Leverkusen have not rejected Liverpool’s €130 million offer, meaning a player inclusion is still just a possibility.
