Liverpool manager Arne Slot has spoken for the first time about the club’s audacious pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen sensation Florian Wirtz, amid reports that the Reds are ready to smash their transfer record with an £87 million offer for the German playmaker.
Wirtz, 21, has become one of Europe’s most coveted talents after a stellar campaign under Xabi Alonso, playing a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win. With 15 goals and 13 assists in 39 appearances this season, his technical brilliance, vision, and composure have drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi.
Manchester City and Bayern Munich are reportedly leading the chase, but Liverpool are not backing down. Speaking to The Athletic, Arne Slot confirmed his admiration for Wirtz and addressed the speculation surrounding a potential deal.
“Florian is an incredible talent – intelligent, creative, and fearless. He’s the type of player who can elevate an entire team, and yes, any club would be lucky to have him,” Slot said. “We are ambitious at Liverpool. If we want to compete with the very best, we must target the very best. It’s not about dreaming – it’s about building. And Wirtz fits perfectly in that vision.”
If completed, the deal would eclipse the £85 million Liverpool paid for Darwin Nunez in 2022. However, the Reds face an uphill battle, with Manchester City eyeing Wirtz as the long-term successor to Kevin De Bruyne, and Bayern Munich prepared to offer him a marquee role at the Allianz Arena.
Despite the fierce competition, Liverpool’s intent is clear. The club, currently topping the Premier League table, is keen to assert dominance both domestically and in Europe – and Slot believes Wirtz could be the keystone in his evolving Anfield project.
Still, there are concerns over financial balance. With Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly pursuing Darwin Nunez, Liverpool may need to consider forward reinforcements, potentially making a record-breaking move for a central playmaker a risky gamble.
Slot, however, appears undeterred: “If we want to shape the future of Liverpool Football Club, we must be bold. I don’t see it as reckless – I see it as necessary.”
While no agreement has been reached, Slot’s comments suggest Liverpool are serious about pushing the limits to secure a player widely tipped to become one of the defining stars of the next generation.
