Liverpool Football Club has pulled off one of the most jaw-dropping moves of the 2025 summer transfer window, finalizing a sensational €150 million (£128 million) deal to secure the services of German wonderkid Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder had already given the green light to join the Merseyside giants, and now the paperwork is complete. He becomes Liverpool’s third major signing this transfer window, bolstering a squad already brimming with potential and ambition.
This landmark move signals Liverpool’s intent to reclaim domestic and European dominance under Arne Slot. Wirtz, a generational talent who dazzled Bundesliga fans with his creativity, dribbling, and playmaking vision, is now set to bring his magic to Anfield for the next five years. The deal also marks one of the highest transfer fees in Premier League history, placing Wirtz among the elite few to command such staggering sums.
While the fee itself is eye-watering, what’s even more stunning is the revelation that Wirtz turned down higher wages elsewhere—most notably from Bayern Munich. Sources in Germany, including BILD’s Christian Falk, have confirmed that Bayern were left reeling after Wirtz opted for Liverpool despite being offered a more lucrative package in Munich.
Manchester City were also strongly linked with Wirtz earlier in the window but dropped out of the race due to the high financial demands and their assumption that Bayern Munich had the upper hand. However, in a surprising twist, Wirtz rejected the Bundesliga champions and chose the challenge and promise of Premier League football.
The decision has reportedly left Bayern’s hierarchy frustrated. Falk disclosed that the German giants were prepared to pay Wirtz up to €24 million annually (roughly £390,000 a week). Liverpool’s offer? A comparatively modest €20–22 million per year, or £340,000 a week. Yet Wirtz didn’t hesitate to prioritize his development and career trajectory over sheer financial gain.
“This is really hard for Bayern Munich to accept,” Falk commented. “It wasn’t even a question of money. This is a German player, one they expected to keep in Germany. It stings even more because he picked Liverpool over a domestic powerhouse.”
Indeed, Bayern are not used to missing out on homegrown talent, especially when they’ve put forward a superior offer. The last time such a high-profile German opted to snub Bayern in favor of a foreign club, it sparked intense introspection in Munich. This case may do the same, especially given how Wirtz has already drawn comparisons to some of Germany’s all-time greats.
Liverpool, on the other hand, are understandably thrilled. Wirtz joins a new-look squad taking shape under Slot, who is determined to inject flair and technical brilliance into the midfield. His arrival complements earlier signings this summer and completes a trio of marquee reinforcements meant to define the Reds’ next era.
There had been some wrangling over the transfer fee in recent weeks. Bayer Leverkusen initially held out for €150 million, rejecting two earlier Liverpool bids, including one worth €130 million. However, insiders such as journalist Ben Jacobs report that Leverkusen ultimately agreed to compromise, settling on a fee closer to €142.5 million (£120 million) to facilitate the player’s dream move.
Leverkusen’s decision to let go of their prized asset wasn’t taken lightly. But given Wirtz’s contributions to the club and his desire to join Liverpool, they didn’t want to stand in his way. “They won’t unduly stand in his way,” Jacobs noted, echoing sentiments from within the Bundesliga club that this deal was more than just business—it was a respectful parting.
For Liverpool, this deal is not only about acquiring a top-tier talent but also about sending a message to rivals. It showcases their ability to attract elite players despite not matching the financial firepower of some European heavyweights. Wirtz’s decision underscores the club’s enduring appeal and the project being built at Anfield.
Fans have already begun celebrating the news on social media, hailing Wirtz as the heir to the creative mantle previously held by the likes of Philippe Coutinho and even Steven Gerrard. His ability to glide past defenders, pick out incisive passes, and score from distance makes him a dream fit for the Premier League and an instant fan favorite.
Wirtz is expected to wear the iconic No. 10 shirt at Liverpool, a number synonymous with brilliance. Sources close to the club suggest he will be unveiled at Anfield later this week, with a massive welcome ceremony planned to celebrate the arrival of a true superstar.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are not expected to make any more big-money moves this window. With the signings of Wirtz, a top-class defender, and a young goalkeeper already secured, the club’s recruitment drive is nearly complete. Now, attention turns to pre-season preparations and integrating these new arrivals into Slot’s dynamic system.
This signing also holds symbolic weight. Liverpool have struck first in the race to snap up the next generation of footballing icons. With Real Madrid landing Endrick and Manchester United chasing emerging South American stars, Liverpool’s capture of Wirtz cements their presence at the top table of global talent acquisition.
Florian Wirtz will now face the pressure of justifying his enormous price tag, but those who have watched his rise know he thrives under pressure. In fact, some believe this move could transform him into a Ballon d’Or contender within a few years—especially if he hits the ground running in England.
The Premier League is gaining one of the most technically gifted young midfielders in Europe, and Liverpool fans have every reason to dream big. With Wirtz in red, the future looks dazzlingly bright on Merseyside.
And for Bayern? This one hurts—and they’ll likely be watching very closely.
