Paul Joyce: Full breakdown of Wirtz add-ons in Liverpool deal | OneFootball

Florian Wirtz Add-On Details Highlight Liverpool’s Ambition

Liverpool’s record-breaking pursuit of Florian Wirtz was never simply about numbers. According to The Times, the structure of the deal reflects a calculated gamble designed to reward long-term success rather than short-term fanfare.

Add-Ons Designed for Success

Paul Joyce reports that the £16 million worth of add-ons will only be triggered if Liverpool win either the Premier League or the Champions League four times. That means Wirtz’s deal, while headline-grabbing at £116 million, could end up costing the club considerably less if they fail to dominate domestically or in Europe.

“Importantly, Hughes also negotiated five equal payments to be made to Leverkusen to cover the initial outlay, which eases the strain on finances,” Joyce explained, highlighting the meticulous planning behind the deal.

Wirtz Settling into Slot’s System

Since joining from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz has been ever-present in Arne Slot’s line-up, starting all three Premier League matches and the Community Shield. He has yet to score for Liverpool, despite netting 34 goals in the past two Bundesliga seasons, but showed his class with a stunning free-kick for Germany against Northern Ireland over the international break.

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“It might take a few more games,” he admitted to RTL. “It’s a different league and a different kind of football. When will I score for the first time? I have no idea. Hopefully, in the next game. It will come eventually.”

Patience Required from Anfield

For Liverpool, the challenge now is to create an environment where Wirtz can thrive and justify such a significant outlay. His creative instincts and vision were major reasons for the investment, and his ability to grow into a talismanic figure could be central to Liverpool’s next era under Slot.

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Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The Wirtz deal feels like a statement of intent but also a test of patience. Supporters have grown accustomed to seeing big signings make an instant impact, and the fact he is yet to score for the club has become a talking point. Still, the club’s decision to link the add-ons to winning four Premier League or Champions League titles shows just how ambitious this project is.

Fans will appreciate that the financial structure does not weigh heavily on the club, allowing investment in other areas of the squad. But they will also demand that Wirtz is given the right platform to succeed. His talent is undeniable, his movement intelligent, and his set-piece ability already thrilling supporters.

There is an eagerness to see him open his account soon, ideally at Anfield, to silence any early doubts and build confidence. The belief among fans is that once Wirtz scores that first goal, the floodgates could open. Liverpool have put their faith in him to be the creative heartbeat of this team for years to come, now it is about Slot unlocking that potential.