0
0
Liverpool have officially confirmed the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, securing the German international in a deal that could become the most expensive British transfer in history.
Wirtz underwent a two-day medical on Merseyside and completed his media duties before being unveiled by the club on Friday night. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder joins for an initial fee of £100 million, potentially rising to £116 million with add-ons.
Leverkusen had initially demanded €150 million (£127.6 million) for their prized asset, who was also on the radar of Bayern Munich. However, weeks of negotiations brought the price down, allowing Liverpool to land one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
Wirtz impressed last season with 16 goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, he said:
“I feel very happy and very proud. Finally, it’s done—I was waiting for a long time. I’m really excited to have a new adventure in front of me. A big part of my decision was wanting something completely new, to leave the Bundesliga and join the Premier League.
I spoke with some players who have played here and they told me it’s perfect for me. Every pitch is perfect, you can enjoy every game. I’m really looking forward to playing my first match.
I want to win everything, every year. First, I have to do my part, and then we want to be successful as a team. Last season Liverpool won the Premier League—my goal is to help win it again and go even further in the Champions League. I’m really ambitious.”
Wirtz is the headline addition in a busy summer for Liverpool, who have also signed right-back Jeremie Frimpong—also from Leverkusen—for £29.5 million. Additionally, the club has agreed a £40 million deal with Bournemouth for left-back Milos Kerkez, who is scheduled for a medical next week ahead of signing a five-year contract.
Liverpool are also showing strong interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guéhi as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
