Real Madrid ‘Agree to Swap Deal’ Involving Liverpool’s Struggling Star Florian Wirtz for Rodrygo
In a stunning transfer development, Real Madrid have reportedly agreed in principle to a swap deal with Liverpool — one that could see Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes head to Anfield, with Florian Wirtz moving in the opposite direction.
According to fresh reports from Spain, Los Blancos are open to including Rodrygo in a potential exchange to land Wirtz, a player they have admired for several years but failed to sign last summer due to Bayer Leverkusen’s high valuation.
The story, first reported by Defensa Central, claims that Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is eager to bring the 21-year-old German midfielder to the Bernabéu, viewing him as a long-term fit for his tactical system.
The Proposed Deal: Rodrygo for Wirtz
The report suggests that both clubs are open to negotiations, despite the complexity of the operation.
Liverpool, who have long been interested in Rodrygo, are believed to see the 23-year-old Brazilian as an ideal attacking reinforcement to complement Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are said to be monitoring Wirtz’s adaptation to the Premier League closely, believing he could still fulfill his immense potential in La Liga’s more technical environment.
“Had Real Madrid taken a chance on him in the summer, Wirtz would have joined the Merengues without hesitation,” the report notes. “While he doesn’t regret his move to Liverpool, he has found the early months in England more challenging than expected.”
Liverpool’s Mixed Season and Wirtz’s Struggles
Liverpool began the new Premier League campaign in blistering form, winning their first five matches. However, a rough patch that included four straight defeats saw them lose ground in the title race — slipping eight points behind leaders Arsenal.
Recent victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid have steadied the ship, but questions remain over the team’s midfield balance, where Wirtz has struggled to replicate his Bayer Leverkusen brilliance.
The young German arrived at Anfield in the summer amid high expectations, but his adjustment to the Premier League’s intensity has been uneven. His performances have lacked the confidence and creativity that once made him one of Europe’s most sought-after prospects.
Expert Opinion: ‘He Just Needs Time’
Former England international Chris Waddle, speaking to BestBettingSites.com, defended Wirtz amid criticism of his recent form:
“I’ve followed Wirtz for years — he’s an exceptional talent, but he’s struggling right now. He’s not at his best for Liverpool or Germany, and confidence seems low. People forget he’s only 21, and adapting to the Premier League is tough. In Germany, he had more time on the ball; here, the pace is relentless.”
Waddle compared Wirtz’s situation to his own early struggles abroad:
“When I joined Marseille, I had a terrible start — people questioned my signing and the price tag. But once I adapted, everything clicked. Wirtz just needs patience and time. His ability isn’t in doubt.”
What Happens Next?
While there has been no official confirmation from either club, reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid are ready to revisit talks in the upcoming transfer window, viewing the proposed swap as mutually beneficial.
For Liverpool, parting with a player of Wirtz’s potential would be a significant decision, but acquiring Rodrygo — a proven Champions League performer with pace and versatility — could be equally transformative.
If discussions progress, this deal could emerge as one of the most intriguing storylines of the next transfer window, bringing together two of Europe’s biggest clubs and two of its brightest young stars.