Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has reportedly issued a firm demand to Liverpool as talks Over a potential €150 million transfer intensify: he wants to wear the club’s iconic No.10 shirt- or he won’t sign at all.
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Wirtz has made it clear to Liverpool that wearing the No.10 jersey, currently held by World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, is a
non-negotiable condition in any agreement. The number holds special significance for Wirtz, as he’s worn it throughout his rise at Leverkusen and for the German national team.
“I respect Liverpooľ’s history. But if lI’m joining, I need to feel like I belong. For me, that starts with the No.10 shirt” Wirtz reportedly told close sources, as quoted by German outlet Bild. “It’s not about ego It’s about identity. I’ve worn it at every step of my journey, and I want to continue that at Anfield”
Liverpool, who have made Wirtz their
number one summer target, recently had a€121 milion offer rejected by Bundesliga champions Bayer
Leverkusen, who are holding out for their
full €150 million valuation.
The No.10 shirt at Liverpool has a storied past, previously worn by legends like Michael Owen, Philippe Coutinho, and Sadio Mané. It was handed to Alexis Mac Allister at the start of the 2023/24 season, and he played a key role in
Liverpool’s recent Premier League title
win.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who must now navigate squad harmony, high-profile egos, and a record-breaking transfer all while satisfying Wirtz’s denmands. Sources close to the club suggest there are“internal disoUssions”over whether Mac Allister could switch numbers in the event of Wirtz’s arrival.
A solution could be proposed if the Argentine agrees to take a new number for next season possibly the vacant No.8, once worn by Steven Gerrard, or No.21, which he wears for Argentina.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have already secured Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen and are close to finalizinga deal with Milos Kerkez, signaling a massive summer rebuild under Slot. But the Wirtz saga – and his shirt number ultimatum – is shaping up to be the most dramatic storyline of the window.
As one Anfield insider put it: “Liverpool can pay the price. But the No.10 jersey? That’s another negotiation altogether”
