Liverpool at centre of financial dispute as Anfield transfer imminent
Liverpool are at the centre of a financial dispute which could delay any summer transfer incomings.
It’s set to be a busy summer at Anfield with the signing of Jeremie Frimpong already confirmed.
Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez appear set to follow the right-back through the door, but these transfers could be delayed due to a dispute beyond Liverpool’s control.
Wirtz delay as Bayer Leverkusen face financial battle
Wirtz, 22, is ready to sign for Liverpool for more than £100 million, but the Reds and Leverkusen must first agree on a fee.
The German, who contributed 31 goal contributions for Xabi Alonso’s side last season, has been linked with Manchester City and Real Madrid.
Liverpool appear to have beaten their rivals to the signing, but must iron out another issue before he signs.
Leverkusen signed Wirtz from Koln in January 2020, despite the German clubs having a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ forged in 2001 to prevent signing each other’s stars.
According to The Express, the move to Merseyside might face delays due to legal complexities, as FC Koln chief Werner Wolf pledged to utilise every legal avenue to claim what they believe they are owed.
Under FIFA rules, clubs that have played a part in a player’s development from ages 12 to 23 are due five percent of the transfer fee.
Therefore, Koln are ready for a showdown for their share of the money, given that Wirtz was on their books from age seven until he turned 16.
Now, Erik Ten Hag’s new side are holding out for a higher fee for their playmaker.
The potential £120 million fee for Wirtz would entitle Koln to £6million income, which would be significant for the German outfit.
Wirtz delays a worry for Liverpool
The delays in wrapping up a deal for Wirtz could become a big worry for Liverpool fans.
Manchester United and Real Madrid have already been linked with a potential hijack of the move, and if the Reds don’t agree on a fee with Leverkusen, the German could get itchy feet.
The added financial dispute in Germany could equally cause the Anfield hierarchy to prioritise finalising the deal for Wirtz, therefore stunting their progress in the Kerkez deal.