Liverpool Sign Florian Wirtz In £116m Deal
Liverpool have completed the signing of German midfield sensation Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth a staggering £116 million, comprising a guaranteed £100m fee and an additional £16m in performance-related add-ons.
The 21-year-old becomes the latest marquee signing at Anfield as the Reds look to strengthen their attacking midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Wirtz’s move could potentially eclipse the British transfer record, currently held by Chelsea’s £107m acquisition of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica in 2023, should Liverpool’s add-ons be triggered by success on the pitch.
According to reports on BBC Sport on Friday, the final figure hinges on Liverpool achieving consistent success at the highest level, including silverware and continental qualification.
The club’s hierarchy are believed to be confident that Wirtz will be instrumental in delivering results.
Wirtz, who made his professional debut for Leverkusen at just 17, played 197 matches and scored 57 goals for the Bundesliga outfit. He was pivotal in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win in 2024 — the club’s first ever — and has become one of Europe’s most coveted young talents.
The German international has also represented his country 31 times, netting seven goals since his debut in 2021. Known for his intelligence, vision, and ability to operate both centrally and from wide positions, Wirtz has drawn comparisons with some of Europe’s finest playmakers.
Manchester City and Bayern Munich were previously linked with the midfielder, but Liverpool moved swiftly to conclude the record-breaking deal after other suitors hesitated due to the high price tag.
Analysts believe Wirtz’s arrival could offer the Merseyside club a new dimension in midfield creativity, especially following the departures and ageing profiles of some long-serving players. His versatility, ability to break lines, and willingness to press off the ball make him a strong fit for the Premier League’s demands.
There are, however, questions as to whether the German will adjust quickly to the physicality and tempo of English football. But club insiders say Liverpool’s recruitment team are impressed by his attitude, consistency, and technical prowess.
Should all clauses be met, Wirtz’s deal would officially become the most expensive British transfer of all time, underlining Liverpool’s intent to reclaim dominance both domestically and in Europe.
The player is expected to join up with his new teammates for pre-season later this summer.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
