Fabrizio Romano Provides Update on Florian Wirtz’s Record-Breaking Move to Liverpool | OneFootball

Liverpool Edging Closer to Florian Wirtz Signing as Transfer Structure Finalised

Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz is nearing its conclusion, with optimism high on Merseyside that the 22-year-old attacking midfielder will become the club’s third summer signing. However, as reported by Fabrizio Romano for DAZN, the hold-up has been caused by complex discussions around the structure of the deal rather than any concerns over the transfer collapsing.

Having already wrapped up a deal for Jermie Frimpong and made significant progress in signing Milos Kerkez, the Reds are showing clear intent under Arne Slot, who is fresh off a historic Premier League title win in his debut campaign. Yet, Wirtz’s deal has proven to be more intricate due to Bayer Leverkusen’s valuation and the specific bonuses being negotiated.

Photo: IMAGO

Bonuses and Add-ons Key to Final Agreement

As Romano explains, “Liverpool and Leverkusen are still negotiating the deal structure and how to include and pay bonuses such as Champions League qualification, league victory, etc.” While Liverpool’s latest offer of €130m (£109m) was rejected, sources suggest the club is prepared to raise the bid up to £126m, closing in on Leverkusen’s €150m (£126m) valuation through structured payments.

Importantly, both clubs are on the same page regarding the player’s desire to join. “If the player wants to move to the club, you just have to wait,” Romano noted, signalling a shared confidence that Wirtz will wear red next season. The variables in the deal, including performance-based clauses, are being finely balanced to satisfy both parties.

Wirtz’s Commitment and House-Hunting Hint

Reports of Wirtz beginning to look for a home in England further underline how advanced the deal has become. It’s clear the player is preparing for life in the Premier League and is aligned with Liverpool’s project. The club’s recent success, their exciting tactical direction under Slot, and the promise of European football present an attractive proposition.

Photo: IMAGO

Romano’s statement, “I am optimistic that both players will join Liverpool,” reinforces the belief that both Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz are bound for Anfield. With personal terms reportedly agreed, it is now only a matter of time before the official announcements follow.

Slot’s Aggressive Window Points to Evolution

Liverpool’s swift and strategic moves in the market are a testament to Arne Slot’s proactive approach. With an emphasis on dynamic, ball-progressing players, both Frimpong and Wirtz fit the new mould perfectly. Wirtz, in particular, brings Bundesliga-proven creativity, vision, and versatility, a profile that complements Slot’s attacking philosophy.

Given the club’s ability to fight off competition from Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Liverpool’s recruitment strategy appears both ambitious and effective. The negotiations may have taken time, but they reflect the reality of modern top-level transfers, where headline fees are often broken into long-term agreements filled with incentives and performance clauses.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Let’s not pretend this isn’t massive. Florian Wirtz has been one of Europe’s most exciting young players, and the fact Liverpool are even at this table is a testament to the rebuild under Arne Slot. After winning the league in his first season, the message is clear: we’re not standing still.

Fans are rightly buzzing. Imagine Wirtz slotting in behind Darwin, feeding Szoboszlai, linking up with Trent in that hybrid role. This is Liverpool putting out a statement — we are back, and we’re planning to stay on top. The fact we’ve beaten off both Bayern and City shows that the project under Slot is not just real, it’s convincing.

And while £126m is a jaw-dropping figure, it’s not reckless. Structured payments, performance-based clauses — that’s smart business. It’s not just splashing the cash, it’s investing in someone who could define the next five to seven years of this team.

Frimpong, Kerkez, now Wirtz — this isn’t a refresh, it’s a revolution. Let the others watch. Liverpool are just getting started.