Report: Liverpool transfer could collapse due to international duty scare | OneFootball

Wirtz Transfer Talks Accelerate Amid Injury Concerns

Liverpool’s ambitious pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has taken a dramatic twist this week, as concerns around his involvement in Germany’s Nations League campaign threaten to derail what could become the biggest German transfer in history.

According to Bild, “Florian Wirtz is on the verge of the biggest German transfer of all time”, with Liverpool now pushing hard to finalise a deal worth around €150 million. That fee would surpass any previous purchase made by the Reds and set a new Bundesliga record for an outgoing transfer.

However, the timing of the move has left club officials increasingly anxious. Wirtz is currently away on international duty, and Leverkusen fear that an injury while playing for Germany could throw the entire deal into jeopardy.

“If Wirtz gets injured, the entire transfer could be jeopardised. Liverpool could want to reduce the fee or back out altogether.”

This sentiment echoes the high-stakes nature of the current talks, which have seen both clubs intensify negotiations.

Medical Checks Already Underway in Germany

In a sign of how advanced discussions have become, Empire of the Kop cite that a private jet flew from Manchester to Cologne, reportedly to conduct medical checks on Wirtz while he is away with the national team.

Although nothing has been signed yet, this quiet but crucial move behind the scenes reveals the seriousness of Liverpool’s intent. Wirtz is widely seen as the creative lynchpin of Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen side, and his potential arrival at Anfield would mark a seismic addition to Arne Slot’s midfield project.

Germany face Portugal on Wednesday night, and the timing could not be worse. Liverpool are determined to close the deal before anything potentially damaging occurs on the pitch. Leverkusen, who have already rejected a €130 million bid, are similarly eager to avoid disaster.

Player Wants Liverpool Switch as Talks Continue

As reported by Empire of the Kop, the 22-year-old midfielder is only interested in joining Liverpool. Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri also confirmed this detail on X, suggesting personal terms may not be a stumbling block at all.

With the player keen and Liverpool determined, attention now shifts back to the negotiating table. While a second offer has already been rejected, it appears Liverpool are inching closer to the €150 million valuation Leverkusen demand.

Wirtz’s performances this season under Alonso have been nothing short of sensational. The attacking midfielder has contributed heavily to Leverkusen’s remarkable campaign and has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.

Photo by IMAGO

Risk Management Key Before Euro 2024

The fact that this move is not yet complete is what continues to worry all parties involved. Should Wirtz suffer any kind of injury while representing Germany this week, the consequences could be enormous for both player and clubs.

Behind the scenes, all efforts are focused on getting the deal wrapped up quickly. While Wirtz has a strong desire to play for Liverpool, the reality of international football means no club can fully protect their asset until signatures are inked.

As things stand, negotiations continue and there remains cautious optimism around the outcome. But as one source explained to Empire of the Kop, “talks are progressing between the two clubs”, though the mood is tense given what is at stake.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As a Liverpool supporter, it is hard not to get excited about the prospect of signing Florian Wirtz. A €150 million deal may seem massive, but Wirtz is not just another prospect — he is a generational talent. His vision, intelligence, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match from advanced midfield areas make him a dream addition to Arne Slot’s system.

However, the timing is deeply frustrating. It is entirely understandable that Leverkusen and Liverpool are both nervous about Wirtz playing during the international break. This situation brings back memories of past sagas where promising transfers collapsed due to last-minute complications.

The fact that Liverpool have already flown medical staff over shows how serious this is. It is not just paper talk anymore — there is real movement. If Wirtz is pushing for this move, and Leverkusen are willing to sell for the right price, we should do everything in our power to finalise it swiftly. Ideally, before Euro 2024 starts.

The club has shown ambition here. Let’s hope injury doesn’t become the plot twist that kills it.