Leverkusen Wirtz advantage emerges as Michael Edwards learns FSG transfer stance
Liverpool are refusing to stand still in the transfer market, despite racing to the Premier League title with ease last term.
The Reds have been dealt a huge blow by the departure of you graduate and boyhood fan Trent Alexander-Arnold, but reacted quickly to secure the services of Leverkusen wing-back Jeremie Frimpong for a cool £29.5million.
They are also now locked in negotiations to snatch Florian Wirtz from the German outfit.
Liverpool recently saw a second bid of £130m rejected by Leverkusen but the Reds are still expected to come back to the negotiating table.
FSG are willing to offer up to £150m
Liverpool’s personal negotiations with Wirtz are understood to be complete, however, the transfer fee itself is a totally different story.
The Reds are desperate to bring the 22-year-old playmaker to Anfield, but their latest stance may have played into Leverkusen’s hands.
The German side knocked back the most recent bid of £130m, but the L4 outfit are now believed to be preparing to up their overall package to £135m.
Die Werkself are adamant that their young star is worth £150m, according to the German outlet Bild (2 June), who have also stated that both parties have a desire to conclude the deal with suitable terms as quickly as possible.
Liverpool’s chief executive, Michael Edwards, has now received confirmation from the club’s owners, the FSG Group, that they are willing to set aside up to £150m, a decision which will suit Leverkusen perfectly Bild has reported.
Wirtz is said to have already agreed his part of the deal, meaning that the responsibility now lies with Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes to work with Leverkusen’s representatives to secure the deal.
Liverpool’s stance will allow Leverkusen to exercise their demands
News of FSG’s £150m allowance is definitely positive for the Reds, considering there is now no doubt that they will have the funds available to bring Wirtz to the club.
However, it is also very positive news for Leverkusen.
The Bundesliga runners-up will now know that they can hold out for their desired asking price, effectively ending any Liverpool hopes of securing a somewhat cut-price deal for the German international.
Wirtz is one of Europe’s most exciting talents, and with 16 goals and 14 assists in all competitions this term, it proved to be another hugely impressive season for the attacker.
It’s easy to see why his current employers are demanding such a huge fee to let Wirtz go, considering that he has the potential to be a dominant player at the top level for many years to come.
From Arne Slot’s perspective, he would be a massive addition for next season and would provide an immediate boost to the club’s hopes of defending their Premier League crown.
The Merseysiders must now focus on getting the deal concluded as quickly as possible, to ensure they leave plenty of time to work on other targets if an agreement cannot be reached.