Liverpool have officially completed the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, with the total transfer package potentially reaching €150 million. The 22-year-old has signed a long-term deal until 2030, joining the reigning Premier League champions in what is now the most expensive transfer in the league’s history. Originally brought to Leverkusen from 1.FC Köln in 2020 for just €200,000, Wirtz now leaves as the club’s highest-ever sale.
The attacking midfielder had been a priority target for several European powerhouses, with Bayern Munich also pushing hard for his signature. Despite Bayern’s willingness to exceed their financial norms, Wirtz opted for a new challenge in England. His departure comes after a historic campaign in which he played a central role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga title win and DFB-Pokal triumph. He was also recognised as the Bundesliga’s standout player of the season.
A standout talent on the rise
Wirtz departs the German top flight with an impressive record, contributing 35 goals and 47 assists across 140 Bundesliga appearances. This output is even more notable considering he suffered a serious knee injury three years ago, yet returned to consistently perform at a high level.
Though some may question the sizeable fee, Wirtz’s consistent performances and accolades provide strong justification. His ability to influence matches in multiple ways made him one of the most sought-after talents in European football.
New challenge in England
In his first comments as a Liverpool player, Wirtz spoke about his excitement for the opportunity ahead. He expressed a desire to step outside the comfort of the Bundesliga and embrace a fresh environment. Conversations with players familiar with English football helped convince him it was the right move, with the standard of play and quality of pitches being key motivators.
The Köln-born midfielder is known for his creativity and flair, especially when drifting in from the left. While primarily positioned centrally, his adaptability, sharp dribbling, incisive passing, and defensive effort make him a valuable asset for Liverpool as they begin a new chapter with their marquee addition.
