Daijiworld Media Network - Liverpool

Liverpool, Jun 21: In a blockbuster move that signals Liverpool FC’s intent under new head coach Arne Slot, the club has completed the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported club-record fee of £116 million. The 22-year-old German international has signed a long-term contract with the Reds that runs until 2030, after successfully agreeing to personal terms and passing a medical on Friday.

The transfer marks Liverpool's biggest-ever financial outlay for a player and sees Wirtz reunite with his former Leverkusen teammate Jeremie Frimpong, who also joined the club earlier this summer.

Speaking to Liverpool’s official media after the announcement, Wirtz expressed his excitement about the move:

“I feel very happy and very proud. Finally, it’s done. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I’m really excited to have a new adventure ahead of me.”

“Leaving the Bundesliga and stepping into the Premier League was a big part of my decision. I want something completely new. I’ve spoken with players who’ve been here and they all told me that this is perfect for me—the intensity, the quality, and the atmosphere. I can’t wait to play my first game.”

Widely regarded as one of the most gifted young talents in world football, Wirtz arrives after a stellar run with Leverkusen, where he spent five-and-a-half seasons following a switch from FC Cologne’s youth ranks. He made his Bundesliga debut in May 2020 at just 17 years and 15 days old, becoming the youngest player to appear for the club at the time. He scored his first senior goal shortly thereafter—against Bayern Munich no less.

Though his momentum was briefly halted by a serious injury in early 2022, Wirtz bounced back spectacularly. In the 2023–24 season, he played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s historic league and cup double, helping the team remain unbeaten throughout the Bundesliga campaign and reach the Europa League final.

On the international stage, Wirtz has already amassed 31 caps and 7 goals for Germany, including a standout showing at Euro 2024, where he netted twice in five appearances.

Liverpool’s acquisition of Wirtz is seen as a major statement of intent, with fans and analysts expecting the dynamic midfielder to be a cornerstone of the club’s new era under Slot.