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Florian Wirtz is admired by Liverpool and Bayern Munich(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool were encouraged to sign Germany star Florian Wirtz by former Anfield hero Vladimir Smicer a year ago.

Smicer, who netted a goal against AC Milan in the Reds' legendary Champions League final comeback in Istanbul in 2005, advised club bosses that acquiring Wirtz would be comparable to when they signed game-changers like Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino.

Despite Wirtz being one of the most sought-after players in Europe, Liverpool received a significant boost this week in their bid to sign the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder.



Reports suggest that Manchester City have backed off from their interest in the star due to financial constraints.

The playmaker had been earmarked as a key target by Pep Guardiola, but City have chosen to step away from a deal with a touted transfer fee of around £125million, which is reportedly proving to be a hurdle.

This development potentially paves the way for Liverpool to secure Wirtz's services, although it won't be easy.

Bayern Munich are anticipated to pose stiff competition for him, and Smicer, 51, was wishing that Liverpool should have actually snapped him up last summer.

"If I could urge Liverpool to sign anyone this summer it would be Florian Wirtz, who is a player that reminds me of Philippe Coutinho," he told OLBG in the summer of 2024.

"Liverpool fans love that type of player.

His pivotal role in Xabi Alonso's team comfortably clinching a spot in next season's Champions League was underscored by his impressive tally of 16 goals and 15 assists, reports the Liverpool Echo.

With Wirtz's contract at the Bay Arena running until June 2027, it's understood that Liverpool have signalled to the German international, and his parents, their interest in being a potential new home should he decide to leave his home country.

Reports emerged that Liverpool representatives met with Wirtz and his family during their visit to the UK last week, as Arne Slot's side, fresh from securing the Premier League title, begin preparations for next campaign.

Leverkusen duo Jeremie Frimpong and Wirtz could both be headed to Liverpool if reports are to be believed(Image: TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP via Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Liverpool have acted swiftly to secure the services of Wirtz's team-mate at Leverkusen, Jeremie Frimpong.
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