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Real Madrid Monitoring Florian Wirtz as Alonso Eyes Future Options

Wirtz’s difficult start at Liverpool

When Liverpool sanctioned a British record deal for Florian Wirtz in the summer, the anticipation around Anfield was immense. The £116 million signing was expected to bring creativity and control to Arne Slot’s new-look midfield. Yet, the early weeks of his Premier League journey have been challenging.

Despite his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest attacking midfielders, Wirtz has yet to register a goal or assist for Liverpool. That lack of tangible output has drawn criticism from pundits and former professionals, with suggestions that he may need a spell out of the starting XI to properly adjust. For a player who shone so brightly in the Bundesliga, this teething period has been more scrutinised than most.

Alonso’s admiration for Wirtz

The calls from Spain highlight just how highly Wirtz is still regarded. At Bayer Leverkusen, he was central to one of the great modern Bundesliga triumphs. Under the management of Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen went unbeaten domestically in 2023/24, lifting both league and cup. Wirtz was central to that success – not just for his technical qualities but for his ability to interpret space, link play and provide decisive moments.

It is little surprise, then, that Alonso continues to admire him. Now leading Real Madrid, the Spaniard has reportedly asked the club’s hierarchy to monitor Wirtz’s progress closely over the course of this season. Should his Liverpool adaptation falter, Madrid may be prepared to explore an opportunity next summer.

Real Madrid’s evolving midfield strategy

Madrid’s midfield rebuild has been ongoing for several years, blending established names with emerging talents. The likes of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga represent the club’s long-term future, yet Alonso knows the demands at the Bernabéu are relentless. Adding a player of Wirtz’s calibre, particularly given their prior working relationship, would align with Madrid’s strategy of securing elite young talent before they reach their peak.

This potential move remains speculative, but the connection between Alonso and Wirtz ensures it is not easily dismissed. For Madrid, opportunities of this nature are often about timing. For Liverpool, it may be about patience – giving Wirtz the runway he needs to flourish in English football.

What lies ahead for Wirtz

The coming months will be crucial. Slot will likely persist with Wirtz in the expectation that his qualities soon translate into performances and results. Adaptation periods are rarely linear, and Liverpool’s record investment is expected to pay dividends once the German international finds his rhythm.

Madrid’s interest, though tentative at this stage, adds a layer of intrigue to his situation. Should Wirtz rediscover the form that made him one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe, Liverpool will have little to fear. If not, Alonso and Real Madrid could be waiting in the wings.