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Liverpool fans will love what Florian Wirtz has done recently(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool aren't just targeting a top-class talent in Florian Wirtz - they're pursuing a player of real character too.

That much is clear from a small but telling gesture the German midfielder made towards Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany.

Wirtz is poised to become the most expensive signing in Premier League history this summer, with Liverpool deep in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen over a blockbuster deal.



The Reds have tabled an opening bid of €100million (£84m) plus add-ons, but Leverkusen are reportedly holding out for closer to £126m.

Bayern Munich were hoping to pip Liverpool in the race for Wirtz's signature, having worked on a deal behind the scenes for some time, but were informed last week that the player's preference was a move to Anfield.

And in a show of respect and class, Wirtz personally phoned Kompany to explain his decision, according to Bild.

It suggests that the 22-year-old would bring not just jaw-dropping ability, but a notable level of maturity to Merseyside - should his move to Liverpool be completed in the coming weeks.

That maturity may help explain Liverpool's willingness to shatter their transfer record for him.

Reds manager Arne Slot is also believed to have played a key role in swaying the midfielder's decision, even if indirectly.

Florian Wirtz (L) reportedly phoned Vincent Kompany (R) to tell him he'd picked Liverpool over Bayern Munich(Image: Getty Images)

Wirtz was transformed from a baby-faced prodigy into a global star under the guidance of ex-Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, who, as a former midfielder, understood how to unlock his potential.

The current record belongs to Moises Caicedo, whose £115m move from Brighton to Chelsea in 2023 - a deal Liverpool came close to hijacking - set the benchmark, narrowly edging out Chelsea's £106m signing of Enzo Fernandez and the £105m Arsenal paid for Declan Rice earlier in the year.

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However, the Wirtz deal still wouldn't eclipse the highest transfer fee ever involving a Premier League club.
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