Liverpool Closing in on Wirtz Deal – and It Might Ruffle Feathers at Man City
Liverpool appear to be on the verge of securing a blockbuster signing that could turn heads—especially at Manchester City.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Reds have reached a verbal agreement “in principle” with Bayer Leverkusen for the highly-rated Florian Wirtz.
The full deal, including potential add-ons, could total around €150 million (£127 million). Journalist Graeme Bailey has suggested the transfer might even be finalized by the end of the week.
Gundogan’s Words Add Weight
Wirtz has already earned high praise from a familiar Premier League figure—Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan. Speaking earlier this year on the TRS Podcast (via The Mirror), Gundogan described Wirtz (alongside Jamal Musiala) as nearly world-class and destined for greatness.
> “They’re close to being world-class… They’ve got the talent and the quality… I’ve played with them for Germany and they show their class consistently. It’s just a matter of time.”
A Record-Breaking Move for a Rising Star
Having shared the international stage with Wirtz on 16 occasions, Gundogan’s backing is notable. Liverpool’s owners, FSG, seem prepared to break the club’s transfer record for a player whose performances back up the hype.
Last season, Wirtz was a standout across Europe’s top leagues. According to FBref, he ranked:
Top 4% of attacking midfielders/wingers for successful dribbles (2.89 per game)
Top 7% for progressive passes (6.63) and shot-creating actions (5.53)
Top 9% for assists (0.38 per game)
Top 20% for shots (2.87) and non-penalty goals (0.38) per 90
He ended the 2024/25 season with 16 goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances, bringing his Leverkusen career totals to 57 goals and 65 assists in 197 games.
A Statement Signing for the Reds
With both the statistics and a glowing endorsement from one of Europe’s elite midfielders, Wirtz looks set to be a game-changing addition at Anfield. If the deal is sealed, it could not only elevate Liverpool’s squad but also stir envy among rivals—including those at the Etihad.
