Onstein reveals significant Wirtz development following undisclosed Liverpool trip

Liverpool Take Major Step Forward in Wirtz Pursuit as €130m Offer Confirmed

Liverpool have escalated their pursuit of Florian Wirtz with a second formal offer to Bayer Leverkusen, reportedly worth up to €130 million (£109m), according to David Ornstein via The Athletic.

This improved proposal includes a substantial guaranteed sum alongside performance-based add-ons, underlining Liverpool’s determination to secure the 22-year-old, widely regarded as the Bundesliga’s standout player.

Sources close to the negotiations reveal Wirtz is enthusiastic about the move, having already made a discreet visit to the north west to explore housing options—an important personal step in his potential transfer.

This development comes after Bayern Munich were informed that Wirtz would prefer a move to Anfield over a switch to Bavaria.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has described Wirtz’s signing as “a matter of time,” with Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong also nearing a Liverpool move in what is being called a near-complete deal.

Slot Targets Leverkusen Duo in Attack Overhaul

Wirtz, who tallied 16 goals and 15 assists last season under Xabi Alonso, has impressed with his flexibility across attacking positions—an attribute seen as essential for Arne Slot’s evolving system.

While Dominik Szoboszlai has operated in an advanced midfield role, his return of six goals and seven assists has left room for improvement. Slot addressed this concern early in the season, expressing a desire for greater creative output in that area.

Wirtz, the Bundesliga’s Player of the Season, offers a contrasting profile—focusing more on tight ball control, technical flair, and intelligent off-the-ball movement, rather than raw physicality and high pressing alone.

Beyond the immediate impact, Wirtz is also viewed as a potential long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, who turns 33 next month—making this a forward-thinking acquisition aligned with Slot’s strategic vision for the club.

Liverpool’s aggressive second bid sends a clear message: Wirtz is a top priority, and the club is willing to go all in to make him a centerpiece of their next chapter.