Liverpool Nears €109M Florian Wirtz Signing, Bayern Misses Opportunity

Liverpool is leading the pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, submitting a substantial £109 million bid to secure the 22-year-old German playmaker, who has expressed a preference for a move to Anfield over Bayern Munich. Wirtz, who has been in excellent form with 10 goals and 12 assists this season, was initially expected to remain in Germany or join Bayern, but Manchester City's withdrawal and Wirtz's reported change of heart have shifted the transfer dynamics. Bayern's failure to secure Wirtz is seen as a significant misstep, especially as the player was once considered a future cornerstone alongside Jamal Musiala. The Reds' sporting director Richard Hughes is leading negotiations after recently confirming another signing from Leverkusen, Jeremie Frimpong. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich, having missed out on Wirtz, are turning their attention to Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo as a potential replacement, with interest reportedly hinging on meeting Liverpool's valuation near €60 million. Gakpo, praised for his speed, finishing, and Dutch heritage, could test Liverpool's resolve amid anticipated summer squad changes including the arrival of Wirtz.