Bayer Leverkusen’s coach, Erik ten Hag, has publicly expressed his frustration over the impending transfer of star midfielder Florian Wirtz to Liverpool. Ten Hag, who recently took over at Leverkusen following Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid, revealed that Wirtz informed him of his decision to join the Premier League club this summer. The Dutch manager did not hold back his disappointment, stating, “He came to my office yesterday to tell me he’s going to this Premier League club this summer. I’m not just disappointed—I’ll report them to FIFA for deception!”
Liverpool have reportedly submitted a substantial £109 million bid for Wirtz, aiming to secure one of the biggest deals in British football history. Although Leverkusen set the asking price at £126 million—surpassing the current British record of £115 million for Moises Caicedo—Liverpool are optimistic a compromise can be reached. Wirtz has reportedly agreed on personal terms with Liverpool and prefers a move to Anfield, prompting both Manchester City and Bayern Munich to withdraw from the race.
The 22-year-old German international has been identified as a top summer target following two phenomenal seasons, including playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s 2023/24 Bundesliga title win. Wirtz contributed 18 goals and 20 assists that season, followed by 16 goals and 15 assists in the most recent campaign. Liverpool’s initial bid was rejected, but they have now returned with an improved offer. Reports indicate that Wirtz is enthusiastic about a move to Merseyside, with new Liverpool manager Arne Slot significantly influencing his interest. A private meeting between Slot and Wirtz reportedly convinced the midfielder that he would be a central figure in Slot’s attacking setup.
Erik ten Hag, who was officially appointed as the new manager of Bayer Leverkusen, succeeding Xabi Alonso, is set to join Real Madrid on a three-year contract. Ten Hag had been without a managerial position since parting ways with Manchester United in October after a 30-month tenure. Despite reported approaches from various clubs, including Ajax, Ten Hag opted to sign a two-year deal with Bayer Leverkusen, keeping him at the club until June 2027.
The potential loss of Wirtz is a significant blow to Ten Hag’s plans for Leverkusen. The midfielder has been instrumental in the team’s recent successes, and his departure would leave a considerable gap in the squad. Ten Hag’s strong reaction underscores the importance of Wirtz to the club and the challenges he faces in maintaining Leverkusen’s competitive edge in the Bundesliga and European competitions.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold. Liverpool’s pursuit of Wirtz highlights their ambition under new management, while Leverkusen must navigate the complexities of retaining their top talents amidst interest from Europe’s elite clubs. The football world will be watching closely to see if Ten Hag’s threats lead to any formal action or if the transfer proceeds as planned.
