Liverpool closing in on Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz

Liverpool are reportedly close to agreeing a deal with Florian Wirtz.

The Bayer Leverkusen star has become one of the most in-demand players in world football after his last two seasons in the Bundesliga in which he's established himself as one of Europe's best playmakers.

As such, a move won't come cheap, with Wirtz valued at around £130m, which would take a sizeable chunk of Liverpool's transfer budget and would likely mean they don't sign an expensive centre forward such as Hugo Ekitike. The move may also accelerate the rumoured departures of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.

Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro said in April that there was a 'very high chance' that Wirtz stays with the club, but the 22-year-old more recently said that he was keen to experience something new at some point.

How new remains to be seen. The early speculation was that, like so many Bundesliga superstars, Wirtz would move to Bayern Munich. It now appears Wirtz is ready to test himself in the Premier League.

The Athletic have reported that Wirtz has already been house-hunting in the north west with a move to Manchester City also on the cards, but it seems the German's preference is for Liverpool.

Dominik Szoboszlai has been excellent in his first season in England, but more so for his work off the ball. The Hungarian has been an integral part of Slot's defensive structure, with his tireless running helping his side win the ball back and create space when in possession.

Wirtz is much more creative and it would see a slight tactical shift from Slot, who would likely deploy Szobszlai in a number eight role, next to the deeper-lying Ryan Gravenberch.

There's still plenty of work to be done, however. While Wirtz may favour a switch to Anfield, the club still need to agree terms with the player and Leverkusen before any move goes ahead

Liam Williams

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