“A Matter of Time” – Fabrizio Romano Provides Positive Update on Liverpool’s Move to Sign Florian Wirtz | OneFootball

Liverpool Close in on Florian Wirtz: A Deal with Bayer Leverkusen Nears Completion

Liverpool’s transfer activity has begun with a bang, as fresh updates from Fabrizio Romano on X indicate that talks between the Reds and Bayer Leverkusen are progressing positively in their pursuit of German star Florian Wirtz. According to Romano, “ The negotiations between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen continue well with club to club agreement getting closer. Liverpool expect it to be matter of time then Wirtz will join the club, as he told Bayer last week about his clear plan to sign for #LFC.”

This revelation is nothing short of seismic. Wirtz is considered one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking midfielders, a playmaker with the intelligence and technical ability to transform a team’s attacking dynamics. Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, seem set on reinforcing their title-winning squad with even more creativity.

Wirtz’s Intentions Made Clear

The most significant element of Romano’s update is that Wirtz has already told Bayer Leverkusen about his desire to join Liverpool. That clarity of intention is vital in modern transfers. Once a player expresses a clear desire to move, it usually triggers a decisive phase in negotiations.

Wirtz’s decision to join Liverpool could stem from multiple factors. The club’s return to dominance under Arne Slot, capped by winning the Premier League in his debut season, has surely made Anfield an even more attractive destination. Playing alongside the likes of Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai will appeal to any young, ambitious footballer.

This isn’t a saga being dragged out unnecessarily. Romano’s report that “club to club agreement [is] getting closer” suggests that while the deal isn’t finalised, there is momentum. Liverpool appear confident and optimistic.

Tactical Fit Under Arne Slot

Arne Slot’s Liverpool side played thrilling, fluid football in 2024–25. The Dutch manager prioritises positional play and intelligent movement, which aligns perfectly with Wirtz’s strengths. The 21-year-old has operated both centrally and wide under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen, but his best work comes when allowed freedom between the lines.

Slot’s system demands high pressing, slick passing and intelligent rotation. In that regard, Wirtz isn’t just a good fit, he’s a natural one. He boasts an elite footballing IQ and a refined first touch. His ability to drop into pockets of space, drag defenders out of shape and create overloads will be priceless.

Photo: IMAGO

Adding him to Liverpool’s evolving midfield could also give Slot the ability to alternate systems more freely, perhaps moving to a 4-2-3-1 when needed, with Wirtz operating in the No.10 role behind a striker.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Likely Position

From Leverkusen’s perspective, the writing has been on the wall. Wirtz has outgrown the Bundesliga side, particularly after their own title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso in 2024. While they will be disappointed to lose such a gem, they are unlikely to stand in his way now that his intentions are public and decisive.

The key now is to maximise the transfer fee. Reports suggest Leverkusen will seek a fee in excess of €100 million, although Liverpool may negotiate a structured deal involving add-ons. Either way, it appears both clubs are working towards a mutually agreeable solution.

Slot’s Ruthless Ambition

This move, should it be completed, is a signal of intent from Arne Slot. The new Liverpool boss wasted no time putting his stamp on the club in his debut season, and now appears determined to elevate them further.

It also sends a message to rivals. Liverpool are not merely content with their recent success, they are building for a sustained period of dominance. Investing in a generational talent like Florian Wirtz shows clear planning, tactical vision and belief in youth.

“Liverpool expect it to be matter of time then Wirtz will join the club” – if those words ring true, then fans should prepare to welcome a special player indeed.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, this update is everything we’ve wanted to hear. Florian Wirtz isn’t just talented, he’s potentially era-defining. You don’t often get a player who can be both creator and finisher, but that’s exactly what he is. He reminds us of a young Philippe Coutinho, but with more maturity and a better engine.

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool are building something new, and it’s exciting. Last season’s title win was glorious, but this would be a statement that we’re only just getting started. Imagine Wirtz feeding balls into Salah or Núñez, or combining with Szoboszlai in tight spaces. It’s mouth-watering.

We also love the decisiveness. There’s no dragging feet or dithering in the market. If Wirtz has told Bayer he wants Liverpool, and we’re getting close, then it’s only a matter of time before he’s holding the red shirt at the AXA Training Centre.

Slot’s already proving that he’s not afraid to go big. This isn’t about replacing what came before, it’s about evolving. And Florian Wirtz? He’s the perfect next step.