Liverpool on the verge of completing record-breaking Florian Wirtz transfer

A landmark agreement with Bayer Leverkusen

Liverpool are on the brink of completing one of this summer’s defining transfers. After lengthy negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen, a deal worth up to €136.3 million for Florian Wirtz has been agreed. This figure, including performance bonuses, sets a new benchmark for both Liverpool and the Premier League.

Financial breakdown and Premier League context

According to The Athletic, Liverpool will pay €117.5 million up front for the 22-year-old German star. With performance-related add-ons, the total fee could reach €136.3 million (approximately £116.1 million). If all bonuses are triggered, Wirtz could become the most expensive player in Premier League history. That title is currently held by Moisés Caicedo, who joined Chelsea from Brighton for £115 million in 2023.

Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation

Fabrizio Romano had previously confirmed that Liverpool had reached a verbal agreement in principle with Bayer Leverkusen for the transfer of Florian Wirtz.

Liverpool’s new transfer record

The transfer will also be the most expensive in Liverpool’s history. The club’s previous record was the £85 million paid for Darwin Núñez from Benfica in 2022.

Wirtz’s contract and wage structure

Sports Illustrated reported that Wirtz is expected to earn up to £355,000 per week under his new contract with Liverpool. When assessed alongside Capology’s wage data, this figure places him on the same level as Mohamed Salah in the club’s current wage hierarchy. This indicates that Wirtz will hold a central role in the squad not only in terms of technical ability but also in salary status.

Standout season and Bundesliga accolades

During the 2024/25 season, Wirtz played 45 matches in all competitions for Leverkusen, scoring 16 goals and providing 15 assists in a standout campaign. Such prolific output has firmly established him among Europe’s most elite attacking midfielders. He was named Bundesliga “Player of the Year” by the German Players’ Union (VDV) for the second consecutive year. After breaking out during the unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning season under Xabi Alonso in 2023/24, Wirtz has now chosen Anfield for his next step.

Manchester City and Bayern fall behind

Wirtz has long been on the radar of Europe’s top clubs. According to Sky Sports, Manchester City decided not to make a formal approach this summer, judging the total cost of the transfer to be “too high.” Goal.com reported that while City had briefly monitored the player, he was not prioritised in their planning.

Bayern’s admission and Liverpool’s project

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl confirmed to Goal that the player held talks with both Liverpool and City, stating, “Liverpool’s project was more structured; we were behind in this race.” Bavarian Football Works similarly reported that although Bayern made a move for Wirtz, Liverpool’s planning proved to be more convincing.

Final steps before official announcement

The deal is expected to be finalised once medical checks are completed. Wirtz will be Liverpool’s third signing of the summer. Jeremie Frimpong, also from Bayer Leverkusen, has already joined the squad, along with Hungarian goalkeeper Ármin Pécsi.