Realisation of missing out on Wirtz sinks in at Bayern: 'He’s leaning towards Liverpool'

The news that Florian Wirtz is edging closer to a move to Liverpool sent shockwaves through German football on Friday, as multiple top-tier media outlets reported that the Bayer Leverkusen star has given the green light for a move to Anfield.

For months, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been one of the most talked-about names in the transfer market, with both Bayern Munich and Liverpool vying for his signature. Now, however, the tide appears to be turning decisively in favour of the Premier League giants.

Within Bayern Munich, the realisation that Wirtz may not be donning their iconic red shirt is beginning to set in. Club president Herbert Hainer openly acknowledged the situation in a statement to Abendzeitung, revealing that sporting director Max Eberl had briefed him on Wirtz’s apparent preference for Liverpool. “Max Eberl informed me that Wirtz is leaning towards Liverpool,” Hainer said. While the club hasn’t officially withdrawn from the race, Hainer’s tone suggests that they are bracing for disappointment.

This development marks a significant setback for Bayern, who are entering a summer of rebuilding under new manager Vincent Kompany. After a turbulent season without silverware, the Bavarian giants were hoping to make a bold statement in the transfer market and Wirtz, the creative force behind Bayer Leverkusen's title-winning campaign, was seen as the ideal marquee signing to kickstart a new era. Wirtz’s ability to unlock defences, his versatility in midfield and attack, and his composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest playmakers of recent times. Missing out on such a talent, especially to a non-domestic rival, would be a significant psychological and strategic blow.

According to BILD, Wirtz has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool, which makes the prospect of a move even more imminent. The same report suggests that Liverpool are now preparing a formal bid to submit to Bayer Leverkusen. While Leverkusen have been reluctant to part ways with their star player especially after such a historic season under Xabi Alonso the lure of a substantial transfer fee, combined with Wirtz’s apparent desire to move, could accelerate negotiations.

At Anfield, the potential arrival of Wirtz is generating immense excitement. Under new head coach Arne Slot, Liverpool are expected to undergo tactical adjustments and possibly a partial squad overhaul. Bringing in Wirtz would not only strengthen Liverpool’s attacking midfield options but also signal the club’s intent to compete with the very best in Europe next season. His creativity would perfectly complement the attacking movement of players like Mohamed Salah (if he stays), Darwin Núñez, and Cody Gakpo.

Furthermore, Wirtz wouldn’t be alone in making the switch from Germany to England. Reports also indicate that Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Jeremie Frimpong, Wirtz’s teammate at Leverkusen. If both deals go through, they would join an already strong Dutch-influenced contingent at the club, including Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo. This growing Dutch core could help Wirtz and Frimpong integrate more easily, both on and off the pitch.

From a strategic perspective, Liverpool’s interest in Wirtz aligns with their ongoing efforts to refresh the squad with young, dynamic players capable of adapting to modern high-tempo football. After a transitional 2023–24 campaign, and with Jürgen Klopp stepping down, the club is eager to build a new identity under Slot and signing Wirtz would be a massive step in that direction.

Meanwhile, Bayern must now regroup and refocus their transfer plans. Despite their financial muscle and reputation, they’ve faced increasing challenges in attracting top talents who are now more open to Premier League destinations. Losing Wirtz to Liverpool could serve as a wake-up call for the German champions, highlighting the growing competitive pull of English clubs.

As for Leverkusen, the potential departure of Wirtz along with Frimpong would be a bittersweet development. While it would mark the end of a remarkable chapter for the club, the substantial funds from the transfers could provide the means to reinforce the squad and build on their Bundesliga success.

All eyes are now on Liverpool’s next move. With personal terms reportedly agreed, the submission of a formal bid could happen at any moment. Should the deal be completed, it would mark one of the first major signings of the Arne Slot era and a significant statement of ambition from the red half of Merseyside.