Journalist: Florian Wirtz to Make Liverpool Decision in the Next Week | OneFootball

Liverpool Monitor Wirtz as Leverkusen Demand Clarity

Decision time for Germany star as Liverpool circle

As the Bundesliga season draws to a close, the focus shifts not only to trophies but to talent—specifically, the future of Florian Wirtz. The 22-year-old playmaker, whose impact at Bayer Leverkusen this season has lit up German football, now finds himself at the heart of a transfer standoff, with Liverpool reportedly among the clubs watching closely.

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, “Bayer 04 Leverkusen are currently expected to demand around €150m for Florian Wirtz from all interested clubs.” That would place the German star among the most expensive players in football history, and immediately narrows the field of potential suitors to a handful of Europe’s elite.

Plettenberg also reported that Leverkusen want a “final decision” from Wirtz by “next week” on whether he intends to remain at the BayArena, adding pressure to a situation already crackling with intrigue.

Liverpool’s interest firm but not yet formal

Reports earlier this week suggested that Liverpool officials had met Wirtz in the north-west of England, sparking talk of a move to Anfield. While no formal bid has yet been made, The Times’ Paul Joyce noted that the Reds could make a “strong pitch” for Wirtz—if he shows a clear desire to move to the Premier League.

That ‘if’ is pivotal. Liverpool, under the guidance of Arne Slot, are building with purpose following a season of domestic dominance. They are not likely to be drawn into protracted bidding wars for a player who isn’t firmly committed to the move. Yet the allure of a creative midfielder with Wirtz’s eye for a pass and flair in tight spaces fits the profile Liverpool are quietly targeting.

With Real Madrid also linked—should they part ways with Rodrygo—it’s clear Wirtz will not be short of high-level options.

High price, high stakes

The €150m valuation is eye-watering but perhaps justified. Wirtz has been a linchpin in Leverkusen’s title-winning side, operating with intelligence and maturity well beyond his years. His vision, movement and versatility have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.

Yet the price remains a considerable hurdle. Leverkusen’s stance is firm—they will “immediately” reject any bid that falls short of their valuation. It leaves Liverpool with a tough choice: meet the fee, negotiate hard, or walk away if the will of the player and the economics don’t align.

As Plettenberg notes, clarity could arrive swiftly. “No formal written offers have yet been submitted by Liverpool or any other prospective suitors,” he reports, but that may change once Die Werkself complete their final Bundesliga match of the season.

Photo by IMAGO

Timeline points to early June decision

Wirtz will link up with the Germany national team in early June ahead of the UEFA Nations League finals. Before then, both club and player are expected to reach a decision on his future. Whether that includes a move to Merseyside remains to be seen.

But one thing is clear: Liverpool are watching. And with a manager in Arne Slot known for developing technical, intelligent footballers, Wirtz would not arrive as a luxury, but as a centrepiece in a carefully restructured midfield.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, this one divides opinion. Florian Wirtz is a thrilling player—he’s been instrumental in Leverkusen’s stunning Bundesliga campaign, and his ability to operate between the lines is something Liverpool could absolutely use next season. But €150m? That’s tough to justify.

It’s easy to get swept up in the idea of adding one of Europe’s brightest young playmakers to a squad already brimming with energy. But Liverpool’s recent success hasn’t been built on flashy mega-deals—it’s been built on smart, strategic recruitment. Would Wirtz shift the dial? Yes. Is he worth breaking the bank for? That depends on how badly he wants the move.

The fact that no bid has been made yet might reflect Liverpool’s calculated approach. If Wirtz signals genuine intent to come to Anfield, the club might well push forward. But if he’s still leaning towards staying in Germany, or waiting on Madrid, then perhaps the Reds are better off looking elsewhere.

There’s a fine line between ambition and distraction—and this deal sits right on it.