Florian Wirtz has made a high-profile switch to Liverpool for a British record sum of £116 million ($159m), turning down advances from Bayern Munich and Manchester City. The German midfielder’s transfer marks a significant coup for the Premier League champions, who managed to outmaneuver two of Europe’s elite clubs in the race for his signature.
Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes revealed that Wirtz had expressed his wish to leave the club as early as February. While Leverkusen had hoped to retain him for another season, the discussions gradually moved toward a departure. By the spring, interest from major clubs abroad—including City and Liverpool—intensified, and the tone of conversations shifted. According to Rolfes, Wirtz made it known in May that he had chosen to join Liverpool.
Behind-the-scenes dealings and mutual respect
Speaking to BILD, Rolfes praised the Merseyside club for the manner in which they handled the negotiations, stating that Liverpool’s approach played a crucial role in the final outcome. He emphasized that all communication with the English side was respectful and highly professional. The two clubs, familiar with each other’s representatives, managed the entire process through remote means—calls, emails, and virtual meetings—without the need for in-person talks.
Rolfes noted that Wirtz’s priority was ensuring all parties involved were satisfied with the outcome. He added that the 22-year-old and his family had always been transparent with the Leverkusen management, who were also informed by the other clubs expressing interest. The sporting director explained that once the player identified Liverpool as his preferred destination, negotiations were held exclusively with them. According to Rolfes, the player was reassured by how seriously Liverpool regarded his role in their future plans.
Wirtz’s growth and departure mark a new chapter
Reflecting on Wirtz’s journey, Rolfes expressed pride in the club’s role in his development. Leverkusen signed the attacking midfielder in early 2020 when he was just 16 years old. Since then, the player has evolved into one of the team’s most influential figures, improving consistently and helping elevate the team’s overall level.
Over his five-and-a-half years at the club, Wirtz built a strong rapport with the staff and demonstrated both ambition and maturity. According to Rolfes, the final decision was entirely the player’s, and he fully stands by his choice to move to Anfield.
Liverpool’s squad, now under the guidance of Arne Slot, is set to regroup soon, with a friendly scheduled for July 13. The team will then continue their preparations with a tour across Hong Kong and Japan later this summer.
