Matthäus instructs Wirtz: loss for Hoeneß
Bayer Leverkusen Star Florian Wirtz Set for Liverpool Move, Rejects Bayern Munich Offer
Munich - Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz has spurned a move to German record champions Bayern Munich, with Liverpool emerging as the favoured destination for the record-breaking talent.
Bayern President Herbert Hainer confirmed Wirtz's rejection during a fan festival, stating, "Max Eberl informed me that Florian Wirtz seems to be leaning towards Liverpool."
Football legend and television expert Lothar Matthäus suggested this decision was a significant blow for Bayern, particularly for sporting director Uli Hoeneß. "For FC Bayern, this is a defeat," Matthäus said. "He [Hoeneß] had consistently stated that Wirtz was his absolute dream player."
Wirtz's imminent move to the Premier League could be materialized if Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen reach an agreement on the demanded transfer fee. Reports suggest the English champions are prepared to pay a sum exceeding €100 million.
The 22-year-old Wirtz, who has a contract with Leverkusen until the summer of 2027, is said to have already agreed personal terms with Liverpool coach Arne Slot and the Reds.
Lothar Matthäus praised the move, stating, "He is taking on a big challenge... Wirtz believes in himself, and rightly so. I absolutely believe that he will make it at Liverpool and in the Premier League."
Bayern, who had reportedly held further talks with Wirtz midweek, will now have to pursue other targets if they are to strengthen their squad, with Jamal Musiala potentially occupying the number 10 role that Wirtz may have filled.
Source: dpa, Bild newspaper
[Enrichment Data] During the negotiations, it is reported that a transfer fee between €130 million and €150 million could be demanded by Bayer Leverkusen, although they might accept a lower base fee with realistic add-ons. Liverpool's offer, including add-ons, is said to exceed €100 million. A deal for Liverpool's Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen has already been secured by the English champions.
Florian Wirtz's potential move to Liverpool could elevate their football service significantly, given his impressive performance in sports, particularly football. According to reports, Bayer Leverkusen might demand a transfer fee ranging from €130 million to €150 million, a figure exceeded by Liverpool's offer.
